Stockbridge, Michigan

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Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries Stockbridge Arca 17'.'ith Anniversary Souvenir Book

Compiled by the Stockbridge Arca Ucncnlogical/l listorical Society

Copyright 20 I 0 by the Stockbridge Arca Genealogical/ II islorical Society and the Stockbridge Area

Anniversary Committee

I, ,1 Stockbridge, Michigan

~ I

McCreery Homestead, McCreery and Territorial Roads I

Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries Stockbridge Area 175th Anniversary Celebration Stockbridge, Michigan

The first settlers came to this area in I 835. These hardy pioneers came by wagon and horseback, often bring­ ing a cow or two with them, from "out east." The migration came through Detroit and Ann Arbor. · These pio­ neers would stake out a claim and enter the land at the land office in Detroit. 111ey would arrive at their new home and erect what amounted to little more than a shed or a shanty before building a more substantial log house or cabin and commence the arduous task of clearing the land. This was a hard life for all involved. Both the husband and the wife and even children put in long hours of back breaking labor. These people stuck to it and prospered. Log cabins gave way to substantial houses, many of which still dot the area.

It is these hardy pioneers and what they started that we are celebrating. Their perseverance paved the way for the pleasant community we live in today. It is a history well worth celebrating.

The Stockbridge Area Anniversary Committee was formed in the fall of2009 for just that purpose. Many indi­ viduals have contributed to the celebration that is planned for later this summer. We hope you ponder the list of people at the back of this book who have selflessly volunteered their time to make this celebration a success. We also hope you attend the many events that have been planned, also listed at the back of this book.

We take great pride in the people that have made the area what it is today. From the earliest pioneers to the current farmers, business people and community leaders, it is indeed an area to be proud of. With this thought in mind, let us continue the celebration, mindful of the past, proud of what we are and looking forward to the future.

~/YlcoJik Deanna McAlister, Co-Chair

(£;.m M~ Lisa Schneider, Treasurer

The Steering Committee

l 75th Anniversary Celebration

Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries From the Editor

I was born at Rowe Memorial Hospital in Stockbridge way back in 1942. Many of you may not be aware that Stockbridge used to have a hospital. The building still stands and is a private residence now. Dr. Guy Culver and Ellen Mayer were the moving forces behind the hospital which lasted from about 1930 into the late 1950's. The Stockbridge Brief-Sun carried a column each week listing who was in the hospital and why. I can imagine that it was avidly read by the newspaper's subscribers.

The newspaper continues, of course, as the Sun-Times. Should you wish to go back and read about who was in the hospital and why, the Brief-Sun is on microfilm at our local library.

This book is about a lot of things. Outside of what I put in this letter, we are not going to give you a history of the area. That bas been done. In developing articles for the book, we have concentrated on four areas. The most exciting for us was getting the story of the many centennial farms and properties in the area. This is something the previous books haven't done. We feel these are important stories to be told. We have expanded coverage of churches to include all the churches in the area, roughly that of the school district, rather than just the churches in Stockbridge. In addition, we are doing the usual coverage of the many businesses and organi­ zations in the area.

As I stated, I was born in Stockbridge. I consider it a privilege to have grown up in this area. When I started school in 1947, there was but one school building in Stockbridge. That was what is now the middle school.. The building housed kindergarten through 12th grade and was the only building I went to school in. It wasn't until the many one room schools in the area began to close and consolidate with Stockbridge in the 1950's that the need for additional space arose and Smith Elementary School was built. The new high school came along in 1967.

I not only grew up in a great small town, I grew up in a great neighborhood. When I see someone from the old neighborhood, we quite often talk about how lucky we were. Very few of the parents that made the neighbor­ hood great are left but you know who you are and we thank you. r thought it might be fun to take a look back at a specific period of time. I was here in 1960 when the area cele­ brated its 125th anniversary. It was a great time for the community. The enthusiasm for the celebration was intense and the participation almost universal . I thought it might be fun to go back and take a look at what Stockbridge was like in 1960.

As far as population was concerned, the village was about the same, just over 1,000 souls. We had five churches, Baptist, Church of God, Methodist, Presbyterian and Stockbridge Community Church. The Church of God has become the Highest Praise Worship Center and the Community Church has disappeared.

We had four grocery stores in Stockbridge. One could shop at Bradshaw's, Stanfield Brothers, Watson's Gen­ eral Store or Wilde's Super Food Market. We had a full fledged department store in Dancers. We also had Brown's hardware and the A. W. Brown Co. drugstore. Before we started renting our school books, we would buy them at A. W. Brown's. We had two soda shops, Collins' and Spadafore's. And, automobiles. In Stock­ bridge, you could buy a Chevrolet or Buick from C. W. Glenn and Sons, a Ford or Mercury from Malcho Brothers, a Plymouth or a DeSoto from H. M Collings or a Pontiac from Cobb and Schreer. If you didn't want to buy a car in Stockbridge, you could drive over to Munith and buy a Plymouth or DeSoto from H & F Sales and Service. Stowe Brothers was still selling Fords but Ray Stoddard had stopped selling Oldsmobiles.

Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries Retail outlets proliferated throughout the area. Both Stockbridge and Munith had lumber yards. You could buy furniture from Caskey's in Stockbridge. Munith offered Porter"s Grocery and Frinkers Hardware. You could shop at Tom's Market, H. E. Munsell General Store, H. E. Marshall's Dry Goods or Howlett Brothers Hardware in Gregory. Unadilla, Fitchburg and Plainfield had top notch general stores. How many of you can remember riding out to Millville on your bicycle to get one of their gargantuan ice cream cones. They were good.

Stockbridge even had a movie theatre. It was located in the Township Hall. It had closed by 1960 but I re­ member going down there on Saturday afternoon and getting a bag of popcorn and a ticket to watch a cowboy double feature, usually in black and white, all for 25 cents.

The first settler in the area was John Baptiste Barboux, an early fur trader. Mr. Barboux claimed to be in the area as early as 1815. Although several fur traders probably came through the area, Jlvlr. Barboux is the only who stayed around, establishing a farm on the north shore of Batteese Lake. Mr. Barboux married an Indian lady, Mary White, and entered the first and third parcels of land in Henrietta Township.

Eli Ruggles is generally credited with being the area's first settler. Eli and his brother-in-law, Amos Williams were directed to the Unadilla area by friends in Dexter. Mr. Ruggles entered land and built a log house but did not remain in the area. Mr. Williams did remain, returning in the fall of 1833 along with his wife, son, daugh­ ter and son-in-law. He built a saw mill on Portage Creek in 1834 and called the area Unadilla. The actual vil­ lage of Unadilla was originally called Milan but when the post office came in 1836, the name had to be changed because there already was a post office called Milan south of Ann Arbor. The Collins brothers, Selah, Josiah and Harrison, also settle in the area in the fall 1833 but in Lyndon Township.

Probably the most interesting Collins was Judson. Mr. Collins was an early graduate of the University of Michigan, taught at Albion College and became the Methodist Church's first missionary to China. Mr. Collins died at the tender age of29 and is buried in Collins Plains Cemetery near Joslin Lake. The Methodist Church in Unadilla was named in his honor.

Settlement continued quite rapidly. Plainfield became settled in 1835 with the arrival of Jacob Dunn and Levi Clawson. Plainfield and Unadilla remained the area's trading centers until the Grand Trunk Railroad came through the area in 1884. The railroad came through the Philander Gregory farm. Mr. Gregory platted a vil­ lngc and the villngc of Gregory was born.

Settlement continued from the east. David Rogers appears to be the first settler in Stockbridge Township, en­ tering land in Section 26. Some say the first settler may have been Heman Lowe up around Lowe Lake. Tho­ mas Sill also settled in section 36. The first white child may have been that of Mr. Sill. Or perhaps Mr. Sill did not remain in the area and the first white child was that of Rachel Lowe and Hiram Stocking. One of the two would appear to be the first white chi!~ born in Stockbridge Township. But, the first white child born in Ing­ ham County may well have been Abbie Dutcher. We, at least, have a definite birth date for Miss Dutcher De- cember 19, 1835. Efforts to find the birth certificates for any of these individuals have been futile. '

Miss Dutchcr's p11rents, Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Dutcher, appear to have been the first settlers in White Oak Township.

~avid Fuller, a Baptist Deacon (and my cousin), appears to have been the first settler in Bunker Hill, arriving m _1837 or 18~8, followed s?ortl?' by a Mister Bunker after whom the township is named. There are two popu­ l~t1on centers m th_e township, Fi~chburg and Bunker Hill. Ferris Fitch, perhaps the most famous citizen of Fitchburg, served m the state legislature and was a member of the state Board of Education.

Moving sou~h, Hiram Putnam was the first settler in Waterloo, setting up residence in 1834. He was followed shortly by hts brothers, Joseph and Guy. Eventually, Waterloo was to see a sianificant influx of Germans re­ sulting in the establishment of the only Lutheran Church in the area, St. Jacob~s Lutheran Church on Riethmil­ ler Road.

Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries The village ofMunith was founded in much the same way as Gregory. When the Grand Trunk Railroad came through in 1884, it came through Hiram Sutton's farm. Mr. Sutton platted his farm for a village and Munith was born. A Methodist Church had been built at Gass burg, a small hamlet at the intersection of Fitchburg and Territorial Roads. The church building was moved to Munith in 1887 along with two stores and several houses.

The only other township in our area is Iosco. The first settler was Alonzo Platt. Elbert Parker followed shortly, locating in what is now Parker's Comers. Lynn Gardner, a former speaker of the Michigan House of Represen­ tatives, was from Plainfield and is buried in Wrights Cemetery in Iosco Township near his father, Robert, who was awarded the Congressional Medal of Honor during the Civil War.

Stockbridge is the only incorporated village in the area. Elijah Smith laid out the first plat for Stockbridge in 1835, calling his village Pekin. Mr. Smith never registered the plat. Instead, he sold the town site to Silas Beebe for $25.00. Mr. Beebe, along with Ira Wood, added 20 acres to the plat and registered it with the County Register of Deeds as Stockbridge. The original plat extended from Williams Street on the east to Wood Street on the west and from Morton Street on the north to Rice Street on the south. The village plodded along with a • small population of about 100 until the railroad came through in 1884. This ushered in what was referred to as "'boom times. " Apparently Mr. Beebe felt the railroad would come through much sooner which is why be • bought the plat. Apparently Mr. Smith knew it wouldn't which is why he sold the plat. The original plat set aside a block to be used for public purposes. The block was held by the Beebe family until 1885 when it was deeded over to the township, the village not yet having been incorporated and, therefore, un­ able to receive property.

With the coming of the railroad, the village began to prosper and was incorporated in 1889. With this prosper­ ity came the need for a meeting hall and a petition was presented to the township board to build a town hall. In 1892, voters approved a bond issue in the amount of$3,500.00 to build such an edifice.

Progress was slow. A committee was appointed, bonds floated and architects hired. A contract was let on July 5th, rescinded, and re-let on August 5th. In March of 1893, the voters were asked to authorize another $1,000.00. This was approved. We don't know when the hall was completed, but in August, 1893, the town­ ship board established fees for the hall's use so it must have been completed at about that time. The total cost of the building was $5,500.00. There is no record ofa request for additional money so the assumption is that the township board made up the last $1,000.00 out of their own pockets.

For the next 35 years, the town hall and opera house was the center of social life in the community. The locals considered it to be the most impressive rural town hall in the state. The auditorium, including the balcony, could seat up to 400 people. The building was used for high school graduation exercises, plays, dances, travel­ ing shows and entertainment of all kinds. The auditorium was used as the high school gymnasium, the place where basketball games were played.

When the new high school opened in 1929, the town ball fell into disuse until the auditorium was leased out as a motion picture theater, an operation that lasted until 1955. The library was located in a small room in the basement until the new library building was opened in 1968. The town hall was completely renovated in 1979 and placed on the National Register of Historic Buildings in 1980 ..

The town ball continues to be used by a variety of civic groups as a meeting place and serves as the seat for township government as well as housing the ambulance service. The auditorium continues to be used for shows and plays.

Electricity came to Stockbridge in 1910. It was originally available in the evenings and then only in the busi­ ness district. Gradually, residential customers were added and 24 hour service became available in I 912. I Natural gas came to the village in 1951. I I Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries In 1912, the village water department was formed with the drilling of three deep wells and erection of a water tower behind the village offices on Elizabeth Street. A new water tower has since been built at Memorial Park. A bond issue was passed in 1963 for a sanitary sewer and sewage disposal facility. This project was completed in 1966.

The first fire department was a volunteer department organized in 1889 shortly after the burning of the hotel. When the water tower was completed in 1912, a hose cart and hose was purchased.

Telephone service arrived in the 1890's with the installation ofa paid phone in the W. E. Brown store on East Main Street. Expansion of telephone service came in fits and starts .. Phone service began about 1898. The Rural Telephone Company didn't come into being until 193 l and service really wasn't satisfactory until the early 1950's. Many of you can remember having to "ring up" the operator to place a call and the joys of party lines. Many of you can also remember that when dial up service was established in the l 950's, having your call cut off after 5 minutes, the telephone company feeling that was a plenty long enough time to conclude a conversation. When you were talking to your sweety, though, it wasn't and one just kept calling back.

Oaklawn Cemetery came into being in 1889. The first cemetery was located on Ira Wood's lot on Wood Street between Rice and Spring Streets. Although the cemetery was private, Mr. Wood did sell lots. Burials were also made in neighboring cemeteries such as Unadilla, Williamsville, North Stockbridge and North Waterloo. When Oaklawn opened, bodies were moved from Mr. Wood's cemetery. In 1907, bodies were also moved from Cooper Cemetery a mile west of the village. Early plat maps show a cemetery at the northeast comer of Morton and Adams Roads and this is presumed to be Cooper Cemetery. Silas Beebe and David Rogers, men­ tioned earlier, were buried in Cooper Cemetery and North Waterloo Cemetery respectively.

And this concludes my ramblings. Several people have made significant contributions to this book and I would be remiss ifI didn't thank them. These individuals are Marcy Tracy, Rhoda Mc Vay, Ruth Camp Wellman, Janet PendeU, Pastor Robert Castle, Luci Stoffer and Mary Ellen Ramsdell. Without their help, this book would not be possible. Also. 1 would like to thank the many people who contributed articles to this book. f~~Q_ £?a~L'-.- Richard Ramsdell Editor

Baptist Church Sunday School Aaron Moeckel's Model T Ford

Bert Parman Barn Raising Knott Welding

Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries Ben, Vida and Edith Holland

Kate and Edna Lewis Ed, Edith and Donald Waterstradt

Forrest Harr Miles, Orson and Guy Ramsdill

Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries CENTENNIAL HOMES

The Daniel Freiermuth Farm The farm used horses until after World War II hav­ ing , as mentioned, a wonderful team of Belgi~n horses. Wayne convinced William to sell the horses and buy an International Harvester F-12 and a one bottom plow. When Freiermuth Road was paved, they had to convert the tractor to rubber tires.

Electricity came to the farm in 1937. Consumers Power's line came to the Freiermuth property line and the Freiermuths had to pay $300.00 to have the line extended. The next year, Consumers extended the line anyway. Inside plumbing came in 1947. Not every­ one welcomed the inside plumbing.

5390 and 5386 Freiennuth Road, Fitchburg Wayne'sjob as a youth was to bring split wood into the house and to his grandparents' house next door. Wayne tells the story that his grandparents would eat Based on an interview with Wayne Freiermuth by dinner earlier than his parents and he would sneak next Richard Ramsdell door for a bit of pre-dinner until his mother figured it out. Daniel Freiermuth was born in Gennany in 1867. Daniel came to Michigan and commenced working on Wayne's father taught him the value of buying one the Emmanuel Hawley farm on M-106 south of piece of equipment and not buying another piece until Stockbridge. Daniel's sister, Emma Beis\~inger, had preceded him to the United States and told him of the the first piece was paid for. wonderful opportunities. Daniel married Alice Landis Wayne attended the Baseline School located at the of Waterloo December 20, 1883 after having dated for comer of Baseline Road and Fitchburg Road. He went only two weeks. to high school and college at Spring Arbor. Daniel purchased a 125 acre farm from Emmanuel Wayne retired from farming 15 years ago. The farm is Hawley and he and Alice set up housekeeping at 5386 currently leased out to the Zietz family for farming. Freiermuth Road, Fitchburg. The house at 5390 Wayne and his wife, the fonner Blanch Kaupp from Freiermuth Road was moved from downtown Batteese Lake, live in the house that was brought from Fitchburg somewhere around 1910. This is the house where Wayne Freiermuth now lives. Fitchburg. His grandparents' house was sold to Jim and Carolyn Myer. Daniel and Alice had five children, Edwin, Frank, Celia, William and Clayton. William, born in 1897, bought the farm at Daniel's death. Ed and Frank had neighboring farms. William sold the farm to Wayne prior to his death to avoid problems with the estate.

The barns on the farm were built around 1907. In­ cluded were a comcrib, horse barn, tool shed, main barn and sheep barn. The farm had cows, horses, sheep, chickens and, for a short period, hogs. Not eve­ ryone likedthe aroma of the hogs.

The farm had a set of scales and a team of Belgian horses. People would came from miles around to William Freiermuth at the wheel and Wayne Freier­ weigh their hay before selling it. muth as the hood ornament on the family tractor.

Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries Heinrich Hannewald Farm Road, Section 16 of Waterloo Township. The farm was purchased in 1890 from the Gottfried Meyer estate with a small house and barn, I 04 acres, by Edward L: Parks.

In 1891, Edward married Martha Barber and they were parents of 4 children. The oldest son, Homer, became a partner of Edward at the age of maturity. Homer was born in 1894 and married Lila Green in 1915. They had 10 children, 4 boys and 6 girls, who at one time or another contributed to the labor and efforts of the op­ eration of the farm.

In 1915, a major addition was made to the house to The Hannewald Homestead, 10773 Parks Road. accommodate the two families. Additions were also made to the barn and outbuildings. Madoline and Dennis Hannewald are the current own­ ers of the property purchased by Dennis' Great-Great The operation consisted of general farming, some of Grandfather, Heinrich Hannewald, on January 30, everything, including milk cows, beef cattle, sheep, 1871. This was the second home that Heinrich and his hogs and chickens as was normal for this area. wife, Charlotte, had occupied in Waterloo Township since their arrival in the United States in the I 840's. In 1925, Homer and his sons assumed the daily opera­ The 130 acre original homestead has remained in the tion of farm activities, including the operation of the ownership of Heinrich's heirs since the 1871 purchase. Spencer Howlett farm as share cropping, the farming The farm has gone through the transitions of fanning of the adjacent Kate Hardt farm and fields on the common to most small farms in the last two centuries­ Henry Tisch farm. They farmed all this with horses. from all around homestead with a variety of livestock ln 1928, Homer bought a Fordson tractor but when the to dairy farm and now a cash crop farm. The farm depression hit he could not afford fuel to run it so it originally consisted of294 acres. The current farm was parked and never used again. It was sold for scrap house is the second as the original home was destroyed in 1943 during World War II. by fire in the l 800's. The farm received a "Centennial Farm" designation from the State of Michigan in July Homer operated the farm as above until 1941, when of 1980. sons Donald and John were inducted into military ser­ vice. Homer operated the original farm of 104 acres The Parks Centennial Farm during the war with help from younger children, Mary and Richard. On the death of Edward, Homer inher­ ited the farm.

In 1941, the original two story house was destroyed by fire. The family lived in the closed school building next door while the new house was being built.

Homer and Richard, the youngest son, became part­ ners in the diverse operations of the farm after pur­ chasing 40 acres from the Realy farm.

Homer sold the farm to Richard in 1960 and Richard changed the diversified operation to dairy farming. He renovated the barn and added stanchions for the cows, The original Parks homestead burned in the 1941. new silos and new outbuildings. Richard purchased By John Parks the Musolf farm adjacent, including the barn and out­ buildings. The Musolfs retained the house and 5 acres. The Parks Centennial Farm is located at I 0174 Parks

Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries Richard manied and raised 4 children, 3 girls and I son who became a partner in later years.

In 1990, Richard added a milking parlor and loafing barn for 60 cows, using the original barn to house young cattle.

Richard died in 2004 and son Richard took over opera­ tion of the farm. The widow, Mary, is owner of the farm and leases it to their son, Richard. Richard has 2 sons that are active in the farming. They operate sev­ eral farms through lease agreements with huge trac­ tors, combines, etc., a somewhat different method than Grandfather Edward's team of horses, plow, drag and miscellaneous hay mowing equipment. The Collins House

William Tisch Farm The Collins House is located at 415 South Clinton Street in the Village of Stockbridge. The land passed By Richard Ramsdell through a succession of owners before being pur­ chased by Mrs. Marian Gorton Snyder. Marian and Like so many of the early settlers in Waterloo Town­ her husband, Frederick Russell Snyder, who married in ship, Wilhelm (William) Tisch was born in Germ~y. 1858, moved from what became known as the Specifically, William was born in Wurtemburg, which Schoonover farm on Farnsworth Road. Frederick was is located in Bavaria, in 1825. He married Katharine to become postmaster at Stockbridge from 1894 to Hanawald on September 1, 1850 in Bavaria. 1905. Katharine, was born in 1830 in Leistadt, Bavaria. The Snyders had 7 children. Kit Carson was a travel­ We don't know when William and Katharine came to ing agent for the Champion Farm Equipment Com­ the United States. Their first two children, Anna pany and died a bachelor in 1889. Gardner was an Maria and Eliz.abeth, were born in Germany in 1851 undertaker in Stockbridge and later studied to become and 1852. William Albert, was born in Pennsylvania a physician. Walter C. became a physician, practicing in 1857 as was the next, Charles Carl, born in 1860. in Horton, Michigan. Of the four daughters, Mary E. never manied. Sarah Minerva lived at home until her Henry was the child born in Michigan, ente~g first maniage in 1889. Also at home were Aaron J. and the world in 1862 in Waterloo, followed by Caroline, Matilda Josephine. Magdalena, Catherine and George. The Tischs have lived on the farm on Mt. Hope Road since the early Needing more living space, the Snyders added a dining 1860's. room and bedroom downstairs and two bedrooms up­ stairs along with expanding the basement. This was William died in 1900 and Katharine died in 1914. done by separating the living room from the kitchen Their son, Henry became owner of the farm. Henry and placing the addition in the middle of the house. manied Fredericka Maute in 1889 in Grass Lake. When Henry died in 1932, his nephew, Clair Tisch, In 1889, John Loren Hubbard manied Minerva. John bought the farm for $8,000. Clair's parents were and Minerva moved to Ann Arbor where John was George Tisch and Emma Hannewald. George was the studying to become a pharmacist. John and Minerva son of William and Katharine. had several children. Their first child was Ardie Marian, born at Grass Lake in 1892. Henry Russell Clair died in 1999, leaving the farm to his daughter, anived in 1897 followed by a daughter, Helen Francis. Connie and her husband, Ronald Wagner. Ron and Connie'live in the old farm house but the farm itself is Marian Snyder died in 1902 and left the home to her leased out to Robert Hannewald for farming. husband and the six children. The Collins House Ardie's husband, John Loren Hubbard died in 1912, The following is based on a history of the Collins leaving Ardie atwidow at age 21. Ardie moved back house written by Grace Collins. home along with Minerva, Russell and Helen.

Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries Ardie remarried on Christmas day 1913. The wedding Herbert died of a heart attack in 1951. David and took place in the parlor of the Collins house, the same Loren continued with the store. place where her mother had married. Her new hus­ band was Thomas Herbert Collins of Waterloo. Her­ Loren and Grace welcomed their third child, Craig bert and Ardie originally lived on the Collins farm in Herbert, in 1953. Waterloo. Marian Ruth was born in 1915 and Ardie, Herbert and Marian move back to the home on Clinton In 1957, Loren and Grace purchased the family home Street in February of 1915, 10 days before Ardie's from Ardie· with Ardie continuing to live there. Dur­ grandfather, Frederick Snyder, died. ing this period, Loren was working days in Jackson and nights at the store. Eventually the store was sold Herbert worked as a carpenter, for the Ostrander and with the electrical business going to David. In 1959, Glenn garage and for the Marshall elevator. with Craig entering first grade, Grace became secre­ tary to the high school principal, Richard Howlett. Phyllis Lorene was born in the parlor of the house in 1917. Herbert David came along in 1920. Loren Hub­ Grace's history of the house ends in 1989. Left out of bard followed in 1922. this article are the numerous upgrades to the house to the point where it would not be recognizable to Freder­ The house was wired for electricity in 1921. When the ick and Marian Snyder. Also left out is the story of lights came on, David exclaimed in delight. innumberable relatives who did not reside in the house along with a few who did. This is indeed a home and The family rode out a thunderstorm during the 1920's. not simply a house. Grace and Loren celebrated their Following the storm, several of the family felt a need 40th wedding anniversary in the house in 1986. to use the outhouse, only to discover that it had been struck be lightning and disappeared. This led, of course, to inside plumbing. Sweet Acres

Herbert opened a store near the water tower in the late 20's, selling appliances and wiring houses.

The family survived the Depression, thanks, in part, to Herbert's skill as a hunter and a large garden in the back yard.

Marian married Wayne Collier in 1936. David mar­ ried Margaret Field in 1941.

During the war, Herbert and Wayne worked at the B- 24 bomber plant at Willow Run. Loren and David The Original Sweet Farmhoue enlisted in 1942. Phyllis became a physiotherapist at Walter Reed Hospital in Washington. All three even- By Pamela Hartman Sweet tually wound up overseas. Lamech Sweet established the Sweet farm in 1843. It Loren Collins married Grace Sauers in Ypsilanti in continued through 4 generations as the Sweet farm and 1946 and set up housekeeping in an apartment behind then in May of 1963, it became Sweet Acres when the Collins house. Both Herbert and David became Edgar with his son John became partners. We are now state certified electricians. well into the 6th generation of farmers with John and son Andrew now partners in the farm. Loren and Grace had their first child, Philip Loren, in 1947. Stephen Mark arrived in 1948. The farm began as a general farm and then in the early 1960's, it became mainly a dairy farm, milking and Television came to the Collins house in 1948. Also in raising Holstein cows, with about I/3rd of them regis­ 1948, the Collins store on East Main opened with the tered. unusual combination of convenience store, soda bar and the electrical and appliance business. The picture shown above is a picture of the farmhouse

Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries as it was at the tum of the century. It was gutted and The May Homestead rebuilt in the early l 930's to the structure that it is to­ day.

It is the future plan of Sweet Acres to continue the production of milk, maintaining the highest quality of milk production possible and to insure a profitable inheritance for future generations.

A brief genealogy of the family follows:

Lamech Sweet was born in New York in 1804. Lamech married Eunice Skidmore who was born in 1811 in New York. Their oldest son, Elias, died at Alexandria, Virginia, May 12, 1864 while serving with the 20th Michigan Infantry, Company K, during the By Vivian May Civil War. His widow was Salura Burch. Lamech 's and Eunice's daughter, Elcina, married Joseph The oldest deed for the property is dated 1860 and Rogers. Hobart married Sarah Smith. Burtis W. and shows the property transferred to Eldad and Elsie Gil­ Mary M. had 3 children, Adah, Anna and Hugh. Bur­ bert May. They had 7 children. Their son Franics S. tis and Mary lived on the farm. Hugh married Inez and Nancy Durkee lived there after that in a log cabin. Cobb and also lived on the farm. Their son, Edgar The house, which is still standing, was built in 1879 by Lamech, married Millicent K. Stephens, daughter of Francis and Arthur May. They built 2 houses. Francis Edwin and Ethel Stephens. Edgar's and Millie's son, S. died in 1896. His wife, Nancy, lived in the house John married Pamela Hartman. with her son Millard until the 1920's. Then Arthur and Minnie Pickell May moved into the bigger house. The Springman Farm Their son Francis W. and Ione Gorton May moved into the smaller house. Arthur and Minnie passed By Richard Ramsdell away in the l 930's . . Francis and Ione passed away in the 1940's. Their son, Lloyd ,and Vivian (Watkins) Both John Springman and Christina Magdalena Sager May moved there in 1948. They had 4 children, Bev­ were born in Wurtemburg, Germany and came to erly, Francis, Christine and Virginia. Presently. Michigan at an early age. John came by himself and Vivian May and her daughter Virginia along with hus­ Magdalena came with her parents, both settling near band Ronald Lewis live in the house. The smaller Ann Arbor. Whether they knew each other in house burned in 1968. Wurtemburg is not known. John and Magdalena were married in Ann Arbor in 1869. In 1871, they pur­ The Westfall Farm chased the Isbell farm two miles west of Stockbridge on Heeney Road. Excerpts from a history of the Westfall Farm written by David Cowan. John and Magdalena raised a family of 11 children, 10 of whom were born on the farm. John died in 1920 The original part of the farm that Benjamin and Jacob and Magdalena in 1921. John was active on the farm Westfall bought in 1875 lay north ofM-106 and ran to until a few months before his death at age 81. The the old Grand Trunk Railroad bed (which is now a chore of running the family farm then fell to his son, park trail) at the north end of the farm. This property George. George married M. Louise Yelsick in 1930. was deeded to Ely Ruggles by Andrew Jackson in As George grew older, the farming duties were gradu­ 1835. At that time Michigan was a territory, not a ally assumed by George and Louise's only child, state. I have no way of knowing for sure but it seems Lynn. George died in 1966, two years after Louise, likely the main house was built shortly after Ely leaving Lynn as owner of the farm. bought the property. Knowledgeable people have con­ firmed that the house is of the style and similar con­ Lynn married Mary J. Spitz Breitmeyer in 1984, Lynn struction to those built in the area around the l 830's. and Mary had no children. After Lynn's death in 1994, Mary continued as owner of the farm, leasing In 1846 by will Ely left the property to Isaac whom I the land out. believe was his son. Shortly afterwards, Isaac sold to

Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries William Bird. Bird owned and farmed the land for pregnant widow and a :2 year old daughter. Since he approximately 30 years. To my knowledge, no other had been in practice only a few years, he had accumu­ structures from that period survive. Whatever Bird lated few resources and May was left in a tough situa­ used for barns, etc., must have been destroyed by the tion. Her only alternative was to return home to her elements or subsequent construction. parents on the Westfall farm. It was there on October 11, 1891 that my mother, Grace Arlene Avery, was In 1875 Benjamin and Jacob Westfall purchased the born. The birth took place in what is now the parlor on property from Bird. They owned the property jointly, a small chaise lounge that I remember as a child. not separated by the lane. Benjamin, his wife Orpha, his two daughters Edith May, 10 years old, and Even though of German heritage, the Westfall family Daisy, l year old, came from Washtenaw County. was strongly Methodist. This meant no drinking of Together Benjamin and Jacob, 9 years younger than alcohol, no card playing and no dancing except on rare Benjamin, farmed the property jointly until Benja­ occasions. Also, any work on Sundays was discour­ min's death in 1901. Daisy predeceased her father, aged. For this reason, Orpha and May often baked Benjamin, in 1900 and, therefore, Edith inherited her beans and bread on Saturday so a typical Sunday father's interest. At this point the farm was split "supper" was a cold baked bean sandwich. Other typi­ down the lane between Jacob and his heirs on the east cal meals were salt pork and milk gravy, spare ribs and side and Edith May Westfall who retained the prop­ sauerkraut, fresh salt ham, canned meats and vegeta­ erty on the west. bles. Fall was the time to butcher hogs, make sauer kraut and do the canning. In l 926 Edith May bought property from Will Sharp on the south side ofM-1906 in Section 30. Later, in Because Michigan had been under tons of glaciers dur- 1927 or 1928, she bought additional property south of ing the ice age, the land, after clearing the trees, was M-106 to the east of the Sharp land from Lute Ives. very difficult to till. The glaciers had deposited mil- In 1930, she died and passed her holdings jointly to lions of small and large rocks in the soil. Any farmer her daughters, Gladys Avery Gale and Grace Avery who wanted to avoid breaking his plow had to remove Cowan. In 1932, Gladys died and left her 112 interest all the rocks after clearing the land. Gladys and Grace to her seven minor children. This ownership contin- helped in this effort. A team of horses pulled a large ued until 1941 when Grace A very Cowan bought all wooden sled called a stone boat slowly along the the property owned by Jacob Westfall's heirs to con- ground. Men, women and children would walk along solidate both sides of the lane. In 1944 she bought the stone boat picking up all the rocks-the bigger ones her sister Glady's 112 interest from the seven Gale by the men and the smaller by the women and children. children. Thus, by 1945 the farm became as it is to- They put the stones on the stone boat until it was almost day in 2007- approximately 440 acres with 320+ too heavy for the horses to handle. They would pull it tillable acres and three woodlots. to the side of the field and the workers would unload the stones in a long line forming a kind of stone fence. The farm is currently owned by David and Lavonne For this reason, most of the original fields were Cowan. David and Lavonne spend summers at the small, 10 to 20 acres surrounded by these stone fences. farm. The farming operations are leased out to the My mother remembers some very exhausting days per­ Topping family. forming these tasks. In fact, the field at the southeast corner of the farm was never cleared and today is a va­ In 1888, May Westfall married John Avery, a young cant pasture that provides good pheasant hunting. doctor who had studied at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor. He originally came from a farm on The Jackson Farm Farnsworth Road only 2 miles from the Westfall By Richard Ramsdell and Maryhelen Jackson Silver­ farm. I'm sure that May and John knew each other thorne from childhood and may have been sweethearts for some time. They moved to Northville, Michigan In the year of 1834, Dr. Cyrus Jackson of Lyons, New where John was going to establish his medical prac­ York came to Michigan and took up land from the gov­ tice. In 1889, Gladys was born in Northville and by ernment. Dr. Jackson entered 40 acres in Section 17 the summer of 1891, May was pregnant again. In and 349 in Section 18 of Unadilla Township on June July, John was stricken with fever, nausea and stom­ 23, 1834. Cyrus's son, John Jackson, Sr., and Hannah ach cramps. Tragically, it proved to be a ruptured Quick were married November 7, 1835 and the follwing appendix. He died on August 11, 1891, leaving a year came to Michigan and settled on the Jackson

Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries homestead. Together, John and Hannah raised 9 chil­ rm sure many oFyou have noticed ·he beautiful house dren, 5 boys and 4 girls. Their son, Andrew, was the and well maintained white outbuildings of the Jackson first white child born in Unadilla Township. John farm. Jackson died November IO, 1888. John and Hannah are at rest in Plainfield Cemetery. The Bird Farm By Mary Ryba Minix and Ruth Ryba Taylor

James Jackson barn and cutter.

The youngest of the 9 children was James, born No­ The Sumner Bird House vember 6, 1854. James spent his entire life on the old homestead. He married Sarah Ellen (Ella) Westfall on David Firman Bird was born in Ann Arbor in 1837. May 2, 1877. James and Sarah became owners of the He moved with his parents to Unadilla in 1841 and homestead upon John's death. James and Sarah had 2 came to Stockbridge in 1849. Firman married Laura children. Daughter Frankie died young. The second Whitehead in 1868. Firman and Laura bad two chil­ was Burr Jackson who became owner of the farm upon dren, Sumner and Eleanor. James' death in 1928. James and Ella sleep in Oak­ lawn Cemetery in Stockbridge. Upon Firman' s death in 190 I, Sumner became owner of the farm. Sumner was born in 1870. He married Burr Aaron Jackson was born in 1887. He married Nellie Milner in 1911. Sumner and Nellie had two Sadie Springman November 23, 1910. Burr and Sadie children, Gertrude and Roland. Gertrude married Jack became the third generation to live on the Jackson Ryba and had three children, Mary, Ruth and John. farm. Burr died in 1959 and Sadie in 1973. Burr and Sadie are at rest in the Jackson family plot in Oak.lawn Gertrude died in 1993, leaving the home to her son Cemetery. John.

Their only child, John Robert, was born May 31, 1913. The Bird farm was located where M-52 and M-106 Robert attended the University of Michigan and was a meet south of Stockbridge and was always referred to chemist for Dow Coming Company in Midland. as Bird's Corner. The original woodwork remains in Upon his retirement, he returned to Unadilla to be­ the home with an inscribed date. come the fourth generation to live on the farm. Robert married Irene Maasburg January 28, 1939. Robert Jn June of 1914 the most destructive tornado in the died in 1989 and Irene in 2004. Both are at rest in history of Michigan destroyed the Bird barn along Oaklawn Cemetery, with many other barns and homes in the area. It was always interesting to hear Grandma tell of the stories Robert and Irene had three children. The middle child, about the tornado, especially the child that was saved Robert, and his wife, Lynn, are the current owners of a by hanging onto the piano that was carried away by the farm that has been in the same family for 186 years. tornado.

The Jackson farm is located at 16524 Dexter Trail. The farm totaled 200 acres at one time and straddled both sides ofM-52. All but the house have been sold

Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries off to accommodate such things as the Ford dealership, The Quinn family has a stained glass window in their the BP gas station, the Farmers State Bank and the memory at St. Cornelius and Cyprian Church industrial park. The Quinn family homesteaded at 2255 Catholic John Ryba is the fourth generation of the Bird family Church Road. Miss Catherine (Kate) Quinn had to live in the house. cleared the land to begin a farm. She also raised her nephew, Richard Gerald Quinn, orphaned at an early The Quinn Farm age when his mother, Meta Bella Grandy, a Native American, died. Farm property included an A frame house that had replaced the cabin. a large barn, silo, milk house, windmill and other buildings. The barn succumbed to high winds in 2008.

The house was continually expanded . It would house at least 24 children over the years, including at least l l childbirths and 3 deaths. This house, well over 150 years old, was destroyed by fire in 2005.

The farm was a traditional farm, raising livestock, grain, fruit and vegetables. Most of the family's fo od needs came from the farm. Nothing went to waste as feed and flour sacks became clothing. The whole fam­ ily contributed to the operation of the farm.

Adults: Meta Bella Grandy Quinn and William Quinn Kate Quinn died in 1945 and left the farm to her Children: Agnae, Dorothy, John and Ethel Quinn nephew, Richard Gerald Quinn. Richard had managed Kate's farm along with his neighboring farm of 80 By Jenell Quinn acres. Richard married Roberta Lucille (Lucy) Her­ rick, a Native American, in 1939. Lucy was born in I The Quinn family immigrated from Faberville Co., Eaton Rapids. Her parents lived on the Isabella ((jJkenny, Ireland because of the potato famine. Pat­ County Indian Reservation near Mt. Pleasant. When rick and John Quinn were in Rochester, New York by Kate die~ Richard sold his farm and moved back to 1841. Eventually, the Quinn's heard about opportuni­ the Quinn homestead, living there until his death in ties in this area. They came by boat and train to De­ 1992. troit, then by Indian trails through Dexter and Jackson to Bunker Hill. Travel was a challenge because of Richard and Lucy had 13 children. Edward (Scott), muddy and rocky roads, no bridges, wild animals and the youngest, remained on the farm to care for his ag­ fallen trees. ing parents.. Scott also worked in the Quinn asphalt business along with his older brothers. Lucy suc­ Once the land was cleared and the family established, cumbed to cancer in 2000, leaving Scott alone on the the family began to meet their neighbors and the local farm. Native Americans, many from some distance. Over the years, several Quinns built houses on the Beginning in 1845, the Quinns and their neighbors farm. Among these were William and Carol Quinn, began meeting at the Markey farm to pray. Later, a who raised Angus beef. traveling priest, Father Kelly, would come every three months to conduct services at Bunker Hill Center. As time passed, Scott spent more time in the family asphalt business and less time farming. Eventually, A local cemetery was created in 1840. With the active the livestock was sold and the farm became a horse support of the Quinn family, the first church building farm. went up in 1863. The Quinn family has always been active supporters of the church and attended the parish Scott married Cindy Wireman in 2009. Scott and school until it closed in 1964. Most of them continued Cindy began to slowly build up the farm. They have their education at Dansville. horses and various breeds of chickens. The original

Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries grape vines are still productive. Scott and Cindy also his dad in 1974. Then, after Stanley had a heart attack, raise hay and lease out a portion of the arm. Robert retired from his job with Ford Motor Company and came back to work on the farm. The two brothers The Quinn farm was declared a Centennial farm many formed a partnership in 1984 and continue to run the years ago by Secretary of State Richard Austin. Thus family farm. the Quinn family are members of the Michigan Cen­ tennial Farm Association and the Michigan Depart­ In the early 1940's the cattle on the farm contacted a ment of State Bureau of Michigan History. disease called Bangs. The herd was destroyed because of this disease except for one small jersey calf. So the The other Quinn properties and homesteads are numer­ family turned to other sources of income such as ous in the surrounding areas of Stockbridge, Dansville, sheep, chickens and pigs until they could build back Bunker Hill, Leslie, Mason, Fitchburg and the upper up their dairy herd. They sold the eggs from the chick­ peninsula of Michigan. Additional Quinn Historical ens until the late l970's. Sheep were on the farm until Centennial Homesteads include Ethel and Ed Brady 1975 at which time they were sold to add more cows and Lawrence Quinn on Heeney Road, James Quinn, to the herd. son of Lawrence, on Parman Road, also the Updike farm at some point in time, William and Meta Quinn fn February of 198 l the farm lost the original big barn on Williamston Road heading toward the Cavanaugh used to house cows, calves and hay a straw to a barn property, Richard Quinn on Catholic Church Road fire. Dansville, Stockbridge and Unadilla firemen all near the Mc Cann farm, Ed Quinn of Leslie, John responded to this barn fire in the late afternoon. Since Quinn on Fitchburg Road and a Quinn on DeCamp there were numerous bales of hay and straw in the barn, it was impossible to put the fire out with water Marshall Family History alone. Water trucks and milk trucks hauled water as best they could but it was not enough. Neighboring When the family first came to Michigan from England farmers responded. They drove their tractors with they settled in the Unadilla area. George E. Marshall manure spreaders and a big payloader in the bitterly then moved to a farm on Swan Road directly north cold weather to haul away the burning hay and straw where the farm is now. and spread it on fields of snow. Everyone worked over night to keep the fire from burning the rest of the The farm, located at 459 l East M-36 in the townships barns and the milking parlor. The barns were saved of White Oak and Stockbridge, has been owned by the and the only livestock lost was due to smoke inhala­ Marshall family for 4 generations. The land was origi­ tion which had caused damage to their lungs. Fire­ nally purchased by Daniel Dutcher on April l, 1837 men, family and friends were given a roast beef and from the United States Government. ft was then sold vegetable dinner the next day by the Marshall family. to Josiah Koons on November 4, 1867. Eliza Koons, Stockbridge firemen continued to stop by and inspect the widow of Josiah, sold the land to George E. Mar­ for 3 days as the fire kept flaring up again. shall on December 27, 1905. The deed was recorded on March 5, 1906. George paid Eliza $1,000.00 up After the new barn was built and more cows were pur­ front and took a mortgage of $2,500.00 to be paid off chased, the Marshall brothers milking herd consisted in eight years at 5% interest. of 160 milking cows and approximately 160 replace­ ment heifers and calves. Over the years more land has George E. MarshaU had three sons, Fred E., Howard E. been purchased and new barns have been built. Up­ and Clarence E. Howard and Clarence moved to the right silos have been torn down and bunker silos have Gregory area where Clarence owned and operated a been added. Farming practices have changed to keep farm and Howard opened a store in downtown Greg­ up with new technology and innovative ideas. ory. Fred stayed on the farm, married Ethel Titus and continued to farm. Fred and Ethel had two children, Stanley and Doris. Stanley married Verna Sharland The Jesse Farm and built their home in the early 1940' s next to the original two story house which was built in the l860's On the first Sunday in August the descendants of by Daniel Dutcher. With a few minor changes to the Francis Jesse gathered in the old family farm down structure, the original house still stands today. Stanley on Dexter Trail that was started in 1845. and Verna had three children, Elaine, Robert and Dorwin. Dorwin came into the farming business with The event in the backyard of Mr. and Mrs. Austin Otis was to celebrate their heritage and sale of the

Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries I

farm to Michael Otis, the sixth generation to own the farm.

Harmon Jesse ready for market The Feldpausch Farm By Russell McGauley Francis and Edith Jesse in front of the old home­ The farm was purchased by Louis and Augusta Feld­ stead. pausch in December of 1876. Louis passed away in 1916, his wife, Augusta, in 1922. Their son William Luella Jesse Otis banded the original deed to her and his family lived there after their passing. grandson Michael. William passed away in 1953. Then, in 1959, owner­ In honor of her 73rd wedding anniversary she wore her ship of the farm was conveyed to William's oldest son, wedding dress. Although a widow for 13 years, the Howard, and his wife Sarah. marriage anniversary is still very important to her. It is now owned by Russell McGauley, grandson of I Mrs. Otis is now 96 years old and maintains her own Howard and Sarah Feldpausch and great grandson of farm residence near Mason. Her parents purchased her Louis and Augusta Feldpausch. wedding dress in Jackson for $8.00.

I The original farm land of about 120 acres was pur­ chased in 1845 by Francis Jesse.

After him were his son Harmon Jesse, then his son Francis Jesse, his daughter Luella Jesse Otis. her son Austin Otis and now Michael J. Otis of Ypsilanti.

In the 1800's and early 1900's it was an active garden­ ing farm. Harmon Jesse was a traveling grocery man from the Stockbridge area who filled his horse drawn I wagon with home grown vegetables. One of his spe­ cialties was celery.

On this Sunday get together in August, vegetables from the same garden were enjoyed at the picnic. The Feldpausch Farm Written events of the early farm days were read, telling The Hawley-Lathrop Centennial Farm of the Indians who lived "just over the hill" and the interactions these Indians had with the Jesse family. By Minnie Lathrop

The original homestead burned to the ground in the In 1842 Joseph Hawley came from England with his 1920's. Austin Otis has lived there since 1946. wife and children to Michigan. He bought our farm

Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries for his younger son, Edwin R. Hawley. in 18~2 . purchased the form from George Reilly, !48 acres of Edwin was married to Mary Ann Dewey in March of land which includes the current homestead. 1873 . They lived in a log cabin on the property. When their son Joseph was born, his grandfather Jo­ When I explored my family history, I shouldn't have seph came to see him. Grandfather Joseph had to been surprised that the reason for the family's immi­ sleep in the loft of the cabin and he got snowed on. He gration to the U. S. involved food. The 1846 potato decided the family needed a new home. The brick famine in Ireland caused Bernard Heeney, my great­ house was built in 1874 at a cost of just under great-grandfather, and his six sons to immigrate to the $2,000.00. The doors and windows were put together U.S. After spending a few years in New York, with pegs. You can see them in some of the doors. where my great-grandfather, John Heeney, became a The windows have been replaced. The farm was origi­ naturalized U.S. Citizen, these Irish farm boys de­ nally 520 acres but was later divided between Edwin cided to drift west to a more rural farming environ­ and Mary Ann's sons, Joseph F. and Robert J. Hawley, ment. The Heeney families landed in Michigan after Robert and bis wife Kate were married. Later where a majority of the families ended in the Bunker­ Almon J. Lathrop, grandson of Joseph S .. bought back hill Township area. some of the original farm. When Joseph S. and Loretta married, a frame house was built next door for On October 23, 1874 my great-great grandmother, Edwin R. and Mary Ann. In the 1990's the white Mrs. Bernard (Margaret) Heeney was walking to her frame house was moved across the fields to a prepared home on DeCamp Road from Fitchburg, where she site on Baseline Road and sold. had been trading, when a team of horses pulling a wagon broke loose from their hitching post on Freier­ Almon Lathrop inherited the farm after his grandfa­ muth Road and ran away. They traveled about a half ther's death in 1970. We had a huge barn fire in 1975. mile when they encountered grandma. She was about The milking parlor was saved and nearly all of the 78 years of age and quite deaf and did not hear the cattle. The first red metal pole barn was built as soon approaching animals. They ran directly over her, as possible before the winter snows came. Eventually, causing her to die within the hour. I guess that horses two more metal barns were built-one for the young are just as dangerous as reindeer. heifers and one for hay storage. Our son fanned with us a few years. When he left, we had an auction. We My great-grandparents, John and Margaret (Woods) sold all of the female cattle, a tractor and other small Heeney, settled in the Bunkerhill area. They had items. seven children; the second daughter, Mary Ann, mar­ ried George Reilly. In 1882, at the age of28, Mary The granary, one of the oldest buildings, has been re­ Ann passed away. In 1884 three more of the Heeney stored. It is put together with pegs. The smoke house young people (ages 28, 22 and 17) died from TB. is standing, as is a large double corncrib with a con­ John, Margaret and family moved into their new necting metal roof and sliding door on each end. The home in Stockbridge Township that John and son dinner bell sits on a platform near the garage. The Patrick had purchased from Mary Ann's husband, Centennial Farm sign hangs on it as well as an ox yoke George Reilly. On March 9, 1887 John Heeney sold used on the farm. Under it, sitting on bricks, is a pair the homestead to Patrick to be transferred upon of andirons that I assume were used in the log cabin. John's death. In December of 1887 Margaret (Maggie) passed and three months later, on March Almon passed away March 15, 1991 after his second 11, 1888, John Heeney died at the age of 63, leaving three-way heart pass operation. I am thankful our sec­ only three of their seven children still alive. ond daughter, Carolyn, and her husband, Steven Wallenwine, built their home on a corner of the fann. My grandfather, Patrick V. Heeney, married my grandmother, Maude E. Stevens of Henrietta Town­ Heeney Homestead History ship and a teacher in the rural schools of the area. on By Ann Jackson January 20, 1902. Maude was 19 years younger than Patrick. Two years into their marriage they had their I have lived at this address, 2671 Heeney Road, for first child, my father Lawton Heeney. In the next over 62 years and have witnessed many changes to my seven years, they had four more children, a

Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries Eighty more acres were added to original farm of 148 had to be tom down before they fell down. When the acres when Patrick purchased adjacent land to the east big hipped roof barn came down we used the north from Eli Ward in 1913. The eighty-five acres to the stone foundation as the back wall ofa 30' by 40' metal west known as the "Duffy Farm" were purchased in building that was built on the site of the old barn. 1917 from Christopher Brogan, bringing the total acre­ Lumber from the old barn was also used in construc­ age in Stockbridge Township to about 310 acres. tion. Another metal building was built on the site of the old buggy shed. The windmill and the little milk Lawton and his wife, Marcelline, had three daughters house are the only remaining out buildings. A new and three sons. Two of the daughters established their garage, new fencing and an 80' by 200' pond were homes on the farm. Joseph, the fifth child, was killed also added to the site. Although the house has seen as the result of an auto accident in January 1987 just a many changes, no more wood burning stove in the few days before his 2 lst birthday. Tom and Judy have kitchen or fruit cellar in the basement, some things nineteen grandchildren/step grandchildren and two remain the same as several family members and their great grandchildren. One of the grandsons built his kin still gather every Sunday afternoon at the old home on the north end of the farm. homestead for a tasty country potluck, great company and a few "somewhat friendly" games of euchre and Then in 1964, the next two siblings were married. My shared stories (usually full of bull) for it is still ore only sister, Mary Ellen, married Michael Mosson in love-filled Heeney home. May and moved to Jackson where she lives today. In June, my brother Gerald J. (Gerry) married Gloria The Steffey Farm Mosson (Michael's sister) and built their home on Par­ By John Steffey man Road between Tom's and Bill's homes. Mary Ellen and Mike have three sons and a daughter that are October 29, 1906 Frank and Mary Steffey purchased responsible for their eight grandchildren/step grand­ 120 acres from Jay J. and Flora McKenzie. They took children. Gerry and Gloria have three daughters and possession April 1, 1907. They removed the old four grandchildren. The middle child built her home kitchen from the house and added a new kitchen and on the property in Bunkerhill Township. dining room. They built a three car garage and a gran­ ary. In 1967 my father Lawton became ill and ended up in the hospital in Jackson where he passed away on In 1912 they bought 80 more acres, making the farm March 12th at the age of 63. Three months later, on 200 acres. Their income was from 200 fruit trees, a June I Ith, my mother, Marcelline, became very ill in small dairy herd, swine and chicken. The apples were her home on Heeney Road and died. My youngest barreled and shipped to cities by train. brother, Patrick, and I were still living at home. He was 21 and I was 22. After our parents deaths the 300 March 3, 1926, they sold the farm to their sons, Irving, acre farm plus the 58 acre property in Bunkerhill his wife Ida, and Daniel. They built the hipped roof Township was divided among the six children. As my dairy barn, small milk house and com crib. part of the estate I received the old homestead and twenty plus acres on Heeney Road. Their income was from a small dairy herd, swine, ap­ ples and potatoes, crops of corn, oats and hay. The In July, 1969 the youngest child, Patrick M. (Pat) was apples and potatoes were sold at the Ann Arbor Farm­ married to Karen Ahlbaum. They built their home just ers' Market. Later years the apples were sold here on east of the old homestead on Heeney Road. Pat and the farm. Karen have two daughters and a son and four grand­ children (and a fifth one due in June.) And then, fi­ January 3, 1962, the farm was sold to Donald and his nally, the last of the six kids to marry, in August of wife, Sally. They continued selling apples with the 1970, I, Ann L., married the boy across the road, help of Irving and Daniel. Daniel worked a lot in the Willis Jackson. We live in the old homestead on orchard. Irving worked at sales. After Irving passed Heeney Road, making our two daughters the fifth gen­ away, Sally took over sales. eration of the Heeney clan to live on this site. Additional land was bought from small farms to make During the last forty years that we (Willis and Ann 430 acres of farm land. Jackson) have made this our home, many changes needed to be made. The majority of the out buildings

Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries As sons Larry and Ron got old enough to help more, in building the house and some of the furniture which the dairy operation was expanded to 120 milk cows is still there. They are also believed to have built the plus dry cows and replacement young cattle. A milk house that Steve and Linda Collins are now in on parlor was built along with other buildings for the heif­ Stephen Road and I am sure the Craig house on Craig ers, hay storage and tools. A lot of orchard trees were Road. removed to make room for the buildings and apple sales were discontinued. Silos and grain bins were John's son, George, and his wife, Cora Watts, had two added for feed storage. children, Olin and Inez. Olin and his wife, Pearle Lud­ low, had two children, George and Maxine. George On December 27, 1986, the farm was sold to Larry and married Luada Robeson and they had a daughter, Jean, his wife, Holly. They continued the dairy herd and who worked at Stockbridge Manufacturing. Jean mar- updated the milking parlor with new modem equip- ried Ted Watters and had Luanne, Mick and Jimmy. ment. They also replaced most of the machinery with Luanne married Dan Heinz and had two boys, Clint new more efficient equipment. They added more and Johnny. Luanne and Dan are the current owners. housing for heifers and machinery. After graduating from college, their son Jakob returned to the fann and In the early days the property consisted of almost 200 is helping them. Their income is from the dairy and acres and went across Doyle Road to where Tulip Tree com. Gardens is located. That house was also built by the Marshall family. All four families income for the I 00 years came from the soil. The Reilly Farm By John and Linda Reilly The Marshall Farm As was told to me many years ago, the Emburys came to Michigan from Canada in search ofland that repli­ cated their old homestead. They were loggers, hunt­ ers, trappers and farmers and the land in northwest Washtenaw County with all of its lakes, streams and forests satisfied their searching.

The following information concerning the purchase of said land, described as the southwest quarter of section number eleven, town one south, range one east, Lyn­ don Township, Washtenaw County, Michigan by my great grandfather and great grandmother, Leonard S. and Minnie A. Embury, comes from the Washtenaw Abstract Company 209082.

By Luanne Heinz The property, 120 acres, was warranty deeded by Addo and wife, Anna, Hill, to Leonard and Minnie The property, on Unadilla Road, was acquired by Embury, June 8, 1909, recorded July 12, 1909, for the George and Margaret Marshall inl864. Mr. and Mrs. sum of $2,500.00. Marshall were immigrants from Glasgow, Scotland. Their first home on the property was a log house. A following page notes that one Mary Scripter war­ They had four children, the first three born in Scotland ranty deeded a connecting parcel of 40 aces to Leonard and the fourth, an expert in stone cutting and masonry, and Minnie on December 15, 1909 for the swn of was born in Michigan. $800.00, giving them final deed to the aforementioned quarter section of Lyndon Township. Son John, one of the three born in Scotland, helped build the home that is standing now. His first wife, Twenty-two years later, Leonard and a second wife, Eliz.abeth or Betsey was also born in Scotland. They Grace, warranty deeded all holding the southwest cor­ had three children, the first two born in Scotland, the ner of section 11 to my grandfather and grandmother, third in Michigan. After Betsey's death, John married Clarence and Ethel Embury, who moved with their Agnes Craig from Stockbridge. They had no children. two daughters, Doris and Ruth, from Jackson, Michi­ Agnes' brother, called Uncle Dod, was also involved gan, giving up work on the Michigan Central Railroad

Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries to begin what turned out to be a very successful life­ retired to Florida, the property was bought by their time of farming. Forty-nine years later the property daughter, Onalee and her husband Forest "Deac" Hart­ was quit claimed by our mother, then named Ruth ley. Most of the farm, including the farm house, b~ Jaskot, and for a period of years the sons John and been sold off. Onalee continues to live on an acre and James worked the land and kept it in agriculture. a half in a house originally built by her son Daniel and his wife Gail. Merlin, Onalee's brother, and his wife Upon the death of Ruth Jaskot, John and Linda Reilly Kay own 20 acres. Other children of Vida and Irving became sole owners of the property. The only visible were Monadeen, Myron, Rolland and Charlotte. change in description now is that Consumers Energy owns a 200 foot easement north to south on the east The Scbray Centennial Farm side of Joslin Lake Road. That easement now contains a high tension power line.

The farm is at present in the beef, hog, poultry and bay business, or what they call sustainable agriculture ... we hope!!!! The Benjamin Holland Farm

The Schray farm from a balloon

By Jim and Barb Schray.

The Schray farm was founded in 1882 and is located at The Holland Farm in 1954 11870 Parks Road, Munith, Michigan.. Information furnished by Onalee BatdorffHartley Christopher Schray arrived from Germany in 1865. Benjamin Jacob Holland purchased what was to be­ He purchased the farm on February 21, 1882 from come known as the Holland farm at the comer of Hol­ Abram and Susan Croman. The farm was purchased land and Freiermuth Roads in Bunkerhill Township in from Christopher's estate by his sons, David and Al­ 1905. Benjamin was the son of George Washington bert Schray on May 11, 1936. David Schray became and Anna Mary Freiermuth Holland, who had settled the owner on August 6, 1945 after Albert's passing. near Bunker Hill Center. David owned the farm until his passing in 1964. Sam Schray's son (Christopher's grandson) A. C. and wife Benjamin married Edith M. Richmond in 1898. Their Eva Schray became the owners on March 10,1968. only child, Vida Esther, was born in Stockbridge in Upon Eva and A. C.'s passing in 1992 and 1993, A. 1901. C. 's son James and his wife Barbara Schray purchased the fann from their estate on January 10, 1994. They Electricity came to the farm in about 1936. Benjamin are the current owners. and Edith bad to pay to have the line extended to the farm house but this meant no more outhouse and no The farm was given the distinction of Centennial Farm more cold seats. It also meant the end of pumping in 1995. It has always been a working farm. Christo­ · water for the farm animals. pher, Albert and David Schray had livestock and cash crops of wheat, com and hay. David Schray raised Upon Benjamin's death in 1948, the farm passed to his potatoes in his later years. The farm is still a working daughter, Vida and her husband Irving Smith Batdorff, farm. Jim and Barb Schray have a flock of sheep and whom she married in 1924. When Vida and Irving raise market lambs for 4-H youth projects. Cash crops

Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries dairy farming and specialized in raising Iambs. It took courage to deviate from their original farming.

Rex and Judi are the 5th generation ofHannewalds to own the farm.

In 1998 Rex designed the large lamb feeding barn that stands north of the homestead. It is said to be the larg­ est lamb barn east of the Mississippi.

: _, ·:;1 .-; -;::, .. ·:J ~:t·:i r.·.: Rex and Judi Hannewald have been diversifying the -- :....x.-:'vr.H . .. .-f, -­ products of their farm. They are selling lamb with ~ their own brand name directly to grocery stores. They have lamb pelts processed for sale for rug, truck seats and clothing. The lamb livers are dried for hearty pet treats. They are using more of the animals that they Sign in front of Schray farm. raise.

Hannewald Centennial Farm An added piece of history. A Moechel girl was killed by a Heydlauff man and is buried in St. Jacob Ceme­ The Hannewald family is the second land owner of the tery. The stone is etched in German to say, "Killed by farm, located at 14880 South M-52. The Hannewalds the hand of a jealous lover." arrived in Waterloo Township, July 4, 1842and settled on the farm in 1880. They initially lived with the The McArthur Farm Reithmillers, who were friends from Germany. On July 5, 1842, they harvested wheat. They recorded getting 30 bushels per acre in their diary. The papers for the purchase of the original Hannewald farm stated they were to assume the mortgage from the first owner and the manure in the barn.

The land is very sandy. Rex's grandfather, Reuben, once told his son, "That the land is so poor, you can't even raise your voice on it." During the years, it has been a dairy and a lamb feeder farm. The crops raised were oats, soybeans, white beans, alfalfa and corn.

The Hannewalds cut marsh hay from the lowlands and stored it in large haystacks. Later in the season the Trinkles would come from Dexter to bale the hay. Hannewalds would take the bales to Stockbridge to Herman and Hattie Reason McArthur load on the train for glass factories in Toledo. The bales of grassy marsh bay were used to pack around The McArthur farm in Section 27 of Stockbridge the glass for shipping. One time the farm truck didn't Township has been in the family for over l 00 years. make it across the tracks in Stockbridge and was de­ John Reason recorded a deed from George Standish stroyed by a train engine. and wife in J 872. After his death, a deed was recorded in names of his daughters, Mary A. Force, Hattie In 1963 the state of Michigan widened M-92, now McArthur and Almira Hollis. In 1899, Hattie became known as M-52. The state condemned the barns on sole owner when deeds were recorded from Mary and the Hannewald farm to make way for the highway. Almira. In 1930, a deed was made out to Herman Many of the landowners were upset at the price they McArthur. In 1931, W. G. Reeves and wife recorded were paid and filed a lawsuit against the state of deeds from Hattie and Herman. These parcels are now Michigan. The farmers won. Harold Hannewald re­ a part of the Stockbridge Community Schools. placed their old barns with the pole barns that stand east of the original 1886 house. They discontinued Years ago, there was a great huckleberry area on the

Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries fann. After the drains were dug so the muck nearby passing through Guy's widow, Myrta, then to Guy and could be farmed, the berry bushes died out. Myrta's only son, Paul, and bis wife, the former Marian Stephens. Upon Marian's death in 1984, Rich­ In 1946, 20.6 acres was sold to Carl Krummrey. In ard and his wife, the former Mary Ellen Knott along 1952, the Stockbridge Community Schools wanted to with Edwin, who had married Marlene West, became purchase land to add an addition to the school. Her­ the owners. man sold 18 acres to the school forcing an end to bis dairy farming. Since then crops have been raised on Cousin Lynn Springman had been farming the land for the farm land. a number of years. Farming operations came to a halt in 1985. Edwin, a local school teacher, was the first to After Herman passed away, bis will left the farm to his build on the land, erecting a log house. He and three children, Mary, Ruth and Don. His widow, Marlene, moved onto the property in 1986. Richard Anna, received the family home at 306 Wood Street. and Mary Ellen, returned to Stockbridge in 2002and Ruth and Don still live on the farm and Mary owns built a house after 40 years of wandering in the wilder­ and pays taxes on her share of the farm land. ness. Ed and Marlene's daughter, Shelley Bumpus, has also built on the property. Guy Ramsdell Farm The property is home to the area's most exclusive golf By Richard Ramsdell club, Ramy Hills, with a membership of 8.

In 1910, Guy J. Ramsdell bought the James Powell The Knauf Fann farm. The farm straddled Morton Road at Heeney Road. About 1930, Guy and his wife, the fonner Myrta Springman built a new house. They sold the old farmhouse which was moved to a location on Moeckel Road. Other portions of the farm were also sold and moved, the chicken coop, for example, winding up at the Holland house at the comer of Holland and Freier­ muth and can be seen in the aerial photograph of that farm elsewhere in the book.

Guy and Myrta moved to town in 1936, selling that portion of the farm north of Morton Road to the Bald­ win family. As can be seen in the picture, they took their house with them. By Duane Yerks

Peter Knauf bad a farm in Waterloo Township. In 1871, Casper K.nauf(Peter's son) purchased the first 40 acres of the 105 acre fann in Bunkerhill Township. James Knauf (Casper's son) purchased the then 105 acres. In 1947, Eldred and Madeline (James' daugh- ~ ter) Yerks purchased the farm from Margaret Knauf (James' widow). Then in 2000, Duane (Madeline's son) and Debbie Yerks acquired ownership of the original 105 acres. In 1996, Duane purchased 32 acres adjacent to the east adding to the farm size. Eleanor, Madeline and Marion (daughters of James and Marga­ ret) were all born in the house at 1282 Fitchburg Road. There are family stories of funerals being held in the home with the caskets set up in the living room. The Ramsdell house in downtown Stockbridge. Casper was a builder and is believed to have built the Guy and Myrta retained possession of the land south two story portion of the house and the two barns. The of Morton Road. This became known to the family as old hitching post still stands in its original location in the "25 acres." The 25 acres remained in the family, front of the house.

Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries The James McCleer Farm Mill. They were very fortunate and made money as most eastern miners did not, as gold was all but gone by the time they had arrived. Terence and James being early entrepreneurs. made their money not by mining the elusive gold but rather by selling grub and supplies to the hoards of miners that had descended upon the gold fields. After returning to Michigan by the mid 1850's. Terence married Ann McCarty, purchased the farm adjacent to Patrick's. and began to raise his fam­ ily of 12 children, the youngest being born in 1878. Ann McCarty was the oldest sister of Mary McCarty who later married Patrick, making all future McCleers (Patrick's adopted spelling) and McClears (Terence's Arthur J. McCleer Homestead, circa 1920 adopted spelling) double cousins.

James McAleer, a native of County Tyrone. Ireland, Patrick McCleer' s untimely death in November 1877 acquired his first 100 acres in the Territory of Michi­ left his young wife Mary in another family lurch. His gan on Valentine's Day, 1835, sight unseen. Several oldest child, Neil, was just twelve, and May, the new­ families from Tariffville, Connecticut, including the born, was just six months old. Somehow Mary McAleers and also the family of David "Deacon" McCarty McCleer kept the family and the farm until Holmes, left Connecticut on foot the following year. the late 1890's when son Arthur J. (four years old at walked to the Michigan Territory and settled near Lit­ the time of his father's death) took over operation of tle Portage Lake in what is now Unadilla Township, the farm. Livingston County, State of Michigan. The lake, later renamed Williamsville Lake, was surrounded by arte­ Arthur planted general crops, kept sheep and also sian springs where the native Indians had frequented. added several new sources of income. He trapped and It also had a healthy flowing outlet through which the traded in furs, including mink and muskrat. He also Williams family constructed a grinding mill. found a niche use for the nuisance water that covered some of his land by renting boats on Williamsville After James and his two sons arrived, they acquired an Lake to a growing population who needed recreational additional 40 acres from the United States Land Office opportunities but did not own a boat and didn't have in Detroit. They immediately began to homestead on the means to transport one any distance. The radio the original purchase and prepare for the coming win­ was not yet in wide use and TV (Dumont) was yet to ter season. Meanwhile, James' wife, Sarah Ann, and be invented. Arthur rented up to forty wooden row­ the female children remained in Tariffville and contin­ boats at a time for 25 cents for the entire day. ued working in the carpet mills to help finance the Michigan venture. Arthur, who never drank himself, always kept a tapped barrel of"customer cider" in his cellar to help keep the James' unexpected death in November 1842 left the fur suppliers coming back with their wares to sell. He young split family in a real bind. ln the end, every­ would then wholesale the furs to major furriers in De­ thing worked out as the entire family was reunited in a troit. growing Michigan by 1850. The two young sons, left alone by death in Michigan, grew up quickly. Art's brother, Neil, had acquired his uncle Terence's old farm directly across the road. There he had six The eldest son, Patrick, kept his father's original 1835 daughters, par for the course for any farmer. Neil later farm, constructed a new salt box home in the 1850's went into the construction business with another and continued to expand his land holdings. His eighth brother, Lawrence, who lived in Gregory proper. Neil child, a daughter named May, was born the same year and Lawrence obtained a United States patent for the that he died, 1877. Atlas Frame gambrel barn in 190 l. Their barns were special as they were built with trusses that prevented The youngest son, Terence, sought his fortune along the "barn with a broken back." These barns could with his brother-in-law, James Birney, in the Califor­ store tons of hay and would not sag or break. The nia golf fields shortly after the discovery at Sutters' three gambrel barns at the Westfall farm are a fine

Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries ,______- - - example of the McCleer Atlas Frame designed and Michigan. Call No. CS69.S83z built by the McCleer brothers. There were literally Title: The McCleers and the Birney; Irish Immi­ nearly a hundred others in the four to five county area. grant families-into Michigan and the California gold fields, 1820-1893. Lawrence McCleer also constructed a dam and hy­ droelectric generator on Portage Creek and ran electric 2.) The Bentley Historical Library Historical Collec­ lines to Gregory. He lit up Gregory until Consumers tions in Ann Arbor houses the following: Power came in 1928. Birney-McClear-Hankerd family papers 1835- 1972. The Musbach Farm

One humorous incident involving the fourth genera­ tion McCleers is worth mentioning. Arthur's oldest .son, Joseph P., began working his aging father's fann The Musbach Farm in 2010 in the 1930's. He, being the new generation, could not Anson Croman, like so much of Waterloo Township, work ground using horses; he had to have a TRAC­ traces his roots back to Germany, specifically, TOR! Joe purchased an early Thieman from neighbor Wurtemburg. Anson was a veteran of the Civil War Lafayette Dewey. The Thieman was a poor man's and the last veteran of that war from Munith to die, tractor, sold as a kit with many of the components, passing to his reward in 1938. Anson was the first including the engine, supplied by the builder. Joe had family member to own the farm at the comer of North so much grief with the Thieman that, after a serio~s . Territorial and Musbach Roads. When his daughter, bout, he put the tractor in gear and attempted to aim it Susie, married Elert Mushbach in 1895, the farm be­ directly into Williamsville Lake. His neighbor and came the Musbach fann. Elert built the barn, which cousin, Leo Gibney, was able to stop Joe until calmer originally bore his name. The barn has disappeared. minds prevailed. I do not know whatever happened to Elert lost a leg to diabetes and had an artificial leg. Joe's Thieman but I assume it ended up in a wartime Following Elert's death in 1931, the farm passed to scrap collection. Joe later patiently waited his turn Elton Musbach and his wife, Ione Katz. Elton died in during rationing and was able to get a new Ford/ 1971. By this time, Kenneth Musbach and bis wife, Ferguson near the beginning of World War II. the former Myrtle Little, had become owners of the property. Kenneth was a self employed truck drive for Today, one 106 year young fourth generation . nearly 50 years. He was active in the Munith Method­ McCleer, one fifth generation Mccleer and two sixth ist Church, the Munith Lions Club and the Farm Bu­ generation McCleers continue to live and operate the reau. Kenneth died in 1994. His son, Roger, is the farm settled by James McAleer way back in 1835. We current owner of the property. congratulate Stockbridge as we both celebrate 175 years of progress. We look forward to 200 years to­ The Brower Fann gether. Josiah M. Brower was born in Waterloo Township in NOTE: 1850 and died in Stockbridge in 1928. He moved to Stockbridge when he was nine years old. He married 1.) The early McAleer history was documented in a Adelada Holmes in 1875. They bought the Collings

Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries fann on Chapman Road north of O'Brien Road and By Jack Mitteer spent the rest of their lives on the farm. Upon Josiah's death, the property passed to Jonathon The history of the Mitteer farm in Stockbridge begins Brower. John and his wife, Grace (Sellers), had two with Samuel Mitteer I who was a member of the daughters, Irene and Patty. Irene married Gerald Run­ French Army of Count Rochambeau and fought in the ciman in 1940. Jerry passed in 1981 with Irene dying Revolution~ War with George Washington's Army. in 2003. The farm is currently owned by their son, He lost an arm at Yorktown (probably in 1781) and Gerald, and his wife, Glenna. was returned to France. He gathered up his family and effects and returned to America in 1783. Samuel I had The O'Brien Farm an only son, Samuel Il, born in France in 1776. Sam­ By Richard Ramsdell uel II was a carpenter in eastern Pennsylvania and eastern New York. Saumel II married Lucinda Amelia Stephen O'Brien was born in Ireland in 1802. He Reynolds and they had 9 children, 4 girls and 5 boys. came to the U.S. with his wife, Alice, and family and Allen Mitteer was born in the state of New York, Sul­ settled in Bunkerhill Township. Stephen lived there livan County, October 7, 1811. He was the second until his death in 1882. child and oldest boy of Samuel II and Lucy Mitteer.

His son, John and wife, Rose Woods, would follow. Allen Mitteer and his wife, Polly (Cochrane) Mitteer, John was born in 1825, also in Ireland and died in came to Michigan in 1836. Allen's oldest sister, 1892. Katherine, married a Mr. Wood in New York and came to Michigan at the same time. Although we can­ The next O'Brien to own the fann was Stephen. not connect all the dots, it seems likely that Kathe­ Stephen was born on the farm in 1864. Stephen mar­ rine's first husband was Ira Wood, one of the original ried Leda Springman. Their son, Howard, took over founders of the village. Allen and Polly first settled on the farm upon Stephen's death in 1942. Howard's land now known as the Price farm on Brogan Road. In mother, Leda, lived to the ripe old age of96, dying in 1840 they purchased the John W. Rice farm, a farm 1968. much of which is now part of the village of Stock­ bridge. This and added acreage has been continuously Howard married the former Nella Murphy. Their son, owned and occupied by the direct descendants of Allen John, currently owns the farm, located on Parman and Polly Mitteer. Allen Mitteer died in 1860. His Road. widow, Polly Mitteer, later married H. N. Forbes, one of the early Stockbridge merchants. The Mitteer Farm The O'Brien's have long been members of St. Corne­ was the first farm in Stockbridge to be designated a lius and Cyprian Church and are buried in a family Centennial Farm, in the 1950's. On the death of Allen plot at the western end of the Church cemetery. Mitteer, his son, Robert Henry Mitteer I, took over the farm. The Mitteer Homestead Robert Henry Mitteer I married Ortance Reeves who was a daughter of James Reeves who started the Reeves Centennial Fann on the comer of Brogan Road and M-36 in 1835. Robert Henry Mltteer I died in 1853 at age 42. This was a relatively young age even for those days and we don't know the reason for his death. On his death, his youngest son, James Allen Mitteer, became the owner of the Mitteer farm. James died in I 943. After that, the farm was managed by Robert Henry Mitteer 11. After his death in 1962, the Mitteer farm was managed by Helen B. Mitteer, his wife. In I 983 the Mitteer farm was transferred to the Helen B. Mitteer Trust and it is still owned by that Trust. The Trust is owned by the Robert. H. and The Mitteer Homestead, circa 1895 Helen B. Mitteer descendants and is still actively farmed by the Watters Farms as a rental.

Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries The Fay Farm However, the ground was too hard to dig the grave. Philip asked the family to come across the road and try and dig a grave on his property hence the beginning of the Plainfield Cemetery. He also donated land to es­ tablish a Presbyterian Church and property to build a one room school house. All this donated property is now part of the cemetery. This left Philip with ap­ proximately 158 acres to farm. He used part of his farmland for an orchard and immediately started plant­ ing seeds.

"' . -~.... h ~~ :-::- · ··,·,·.-,it't:: ·~:!:.~ .1-:· j-: .. .. ~J1l~ • • . . -~ ~ ; :J :.~ ~nlffi~PIH~~~~!!Jfl~~lf ! '. ':i~ .; The Fay farm when it belonged to Roger Derby Milo and Matilda Smith purchased the former Derby farm from Roger Derby April 15, 1909. Their daugh­ ter, Olive Smith, married Ted Fay. The two families lived together for a time. December 18, 1924 Ted and Olive purchased the farm from the widowed Matilda --- Smith. Ted was active in township government for many years. Olive was equally busy. One volunteer The house Philip Dyer built :~~('bwas te:hing cooking classes to Happy Hustler The brick house and upright wing took Philip two u mem rs. years to build. The bricks were all handmade from the clay soil on the farm. The kiln was located on a hill April 16, 1996 the fann ownership was transferred to just north of the house. The woodwork in the house their son, Stanley. He, too, was active in Stockbridge was all black walnut taken from the area he cleared to Township government. His children, Dale, Kathy and build the house. There were stalls for the horses on the Corrine, as well as the entire community, were south end of the barn, wooden cattle stanchions where shocked by Stan's sudden death in a farm accident. the cows were milked, and a calf pen. The Dyers raised calves for veal. On the north end of the barn, Corrine's son, Steve Andrew Fay and wife, Rebecca, there was a sheep area which could be expanded by have purchased the farm from Stan's widow. Their moving a wooden wall so there was more room at young sons, Nathan, Hunter, Chase and Parker, are lambing time. The upper floor of the barn had a large busy little farmers on the 10 l year old family farm. granary where wheat, oats, barley and rye were stored. There was a hay mow on the north and south ends of Louis Wild Farm the barn with a driveway between where the thrashing Jacob and Caroline Wild purchased the original farm was done in the late summer. The barn was destroyed in 1903. For many years the farm was worked by a by a tornado in the early 1960's. partnership of third generation brothers, D'Wayne, Donald and Louis. In the 1990's, Louis purchased 159 In the mid 1800's Harvey Dyer, Philip's son, pur- acres of the original furm from the partnership. The chased the farm. By this time, the orchard had ma- partnership of the three Wild brothers or their heirs tured and apples were shipped all over the United continue to own 85 acres of the orioinal farm. States from Gregory, Michigan. Harvey could graft an "' apple tree capable of producing several varieties of Philip Dyer Farm apples on one tree. The favorite family apple was a pound sweet apple which was a large yellow sweet Philip Dyer was the second settler in Plainfield, origi­ apple. Working among the apple blossoms, Harvey nally called Dyersburg, arriving from New Jersey in was also an avid beekeeper. He wore an old hat with a 1836. At that time he purchased two 80 acre parcels. curtain sewn around the brim and used a type of binder Sometime later, one of his neighbors died. His family twine around his wrists and ankles to protect him from tried in vain to dig a grave on the their property. the bees.. He would order the queen bee from a cata-

Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries log and carefully inspect the bee upon arrival in the Samuel's first born son, Asa, followed. Samuel died ;n mail to make sure she had survived the trip! The north l 88'.?. and Asa. born on the homestead in 1843, became end of the farm had some low land, springs and swamp owner of the farm. Asa and his wife, Alvira, con­ which produced an abundance of wild cranberries. ~rolled the land until his death when son Edward John Harvey could also witch for water, which was a skill and his wife, the former Sarah Wilson, became own­ that neighbors used when deciding to dig their wells. ers. Following Edwin and Sarah were Clinton Asa and Grace Lucille. Currently Hilbert Proctor and his. wife, The Dyers were very industrious. They were tavern Dorothy live on the farm along with their daughters :, eepers, having built a wooden tavern close to their and their husbands, Larry and Tracy Baldwin and home. They also had a harness shop where the local Mark and Arica Smith. farmers gathered to visit and purchase supplies to re­ pair the harnesses for their horses. Josephine Dyer, The John Taylor Farm Harvey's wife, traveled to Detroit to take fresh pro­ John Taylor was born at Slack in the township of duce in season, including squash, elderberries, straw­ Bar!Gsland, Yorkshire, England, December 28, 1813. berries, holly, chickens, apples and eggs. all of which He was the son of John and Sallie Gee Tayor. were sold at the Eastern Market. The Proctor Farm In 1839, John and his cousin. Richard Taylor ofCut­ edge in the same township emigrated to the United States and settled as pioneers in the township of Una­ dilla, Livingston County, Michigan. He lived upon the farm in this township the rest of his life.

On June 20, 1845, John married Betty Brearley, the widow of James Tetley. She was born at Ripponden, Yorkshire, England on January 7, 1806. To them was born one child, John Agur Taylor, on March 29, 1847.

John married Helen Jackson of Unadilla on March 29, 1847. John Agur died in 1880 and Helen passed away in 1903. John Agur and Helen had four children; Grace. Who married George Blauvelt, followed by the twins, John Lewis and June. John married Marion Asa Proctor Farm Patrick and June married Sylvia Votes. The fourth child was Caspar who married Margie House. Samuel Proctor came to Michigan with four other young men. Samuel, born in Vermont, walked from June followed John Agur as owner of the farm. June Niagara County in New York through Canada . A and Sylvia had seven children, Ellen, Joseph, Norma, gentleman in Grass Lake told them about a Mr. Greg­ Tom. Jean and twins Wayne and Wilma Jean. June ory in own 1 North, Range 2, East (Stockbridge Town­ was a dairy farmer, member of the Methodist Church ship) that had a list of lands in the township which had in Plainfield, a Mason and a former member of the not been entered or bought. Samuel found his way and Stockbridge School Board. entered land in Sections 1 and 2 of Stockbridge Town­ ship on April 20, 1835. He returned to Niagara Joseph Taylor was next in line to run the farm. Joe County in 1840, married Cordelia Johnson and married Janet Musbach. Joe has pretty much retired brought her back to his Stockbridge home where they although he still lives on the farm. His son, Jonathan lived the remainder of their lives. Samuel told of split­ is in control and raises beef cattle. ting rails for 50 cents a hundred to help pay for the fann. He once drove to Detroit to buy a load of flour. The Jump-Garfield Farm His neighbors united to pay the cost of $20.00 per bar­ rel. Samuel sold a part of his acreage to James Ramson and Helen Jump moved onto the farm, located Reeves. just south of Baseline Road on Fitchburg Road in Hen­ rietta Township, in 1883. There, they spent the rest of Since Samuel entered his land in 1835, there have been their lives. After Ransom's passing in 1934, Helen a succession of descendants to live on the Proctor continued to live on the farm, except for a short farm.

Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries period prior to 1956. In 1956, the farm house was Meat was canned as well as other garden produce. completely remodeled and Helen moved back in with Sugar beets. celery, sweet com and potatoes were also her two widowed daughters, Mrs. Francis Garfield grown. and Mrs. Maggie Parman. Helen died in 196 I at the age of98. The farm passed through Francis, who had A grove of pine tree seedlings was planted during the married John Garfield, to her son Gerald and his wife 1940's on a hill which borders the Willow Run Golf Doris. Gerald died in 1990 and Doris in 2002. The Course. farm currently belongs to the Doris Garfield Trust. Farming was done with horses until the early 1940's The Ackley Farm when Oliver and International Harvester Farm tractors were purchased.

Ponies from Belle Isle were kept for the winter months. A filly colt was purchased from Kemie Jones for Jean in the late l 940's. She was named Rusty and was buried on the farm after her death in 1970. You could always see a dog and several cats wondering around the yard.

The original farm house which burned in 1943.

The Ackley farm, located at 3094 Heeney Road in Stockbridge, was declared a Centennial fram on March 20, 1997. This property has been in the Ackley/Hatt family since January 13, 1896. The farm was pur­ chased by Nathan C. and Elanor K. Hatt and later it was owned by their daughter and her husband, Henry Belle Island Pony with new house in background Ackley. Ida and Henry raised daughters Alma, Alta, Muriel and a son, Orla, on the farm. Orla passed away on his birthday, September 15, 1994. Mildred stayed on the farm for a while then moved Orla was married to Mildred Sherman on May 23, into town. The large dairy barn was tom down due to 1936. They occupied the farmhouse at this location deterioration in 2009. The property is now owned by until a fire destroyed it on March 8, 1943. The fire Dale and Bill Ackley and Jean Ackley Johnson. began between 9 and 10 p.m. and is believed to have Sommer Farms been caused by a chimney fire. Orla had heard a noise upstairs and, when he opened the attic door, the whole By Doug Sommer area was on fire. He carried their two daughters, Elaine and Jean, to safety while his wife went to the George and Ella May Nichols established the original neighbors to call the fire department. Evidently the farm of 160 acres in 1912. The farm was later pur­ siren was frozen and failed to work. Only a few per­ chased in 1933 by their daughter and husband, Edna sonal items and some clothing were saved. Orla re­ and Emil Sommers. In 1949, the big dairy barn which built a ranch style home in the same location. Their housed several cows, calves and machinery was struck sons, Bill and Dale, were also raised on this home­ by lightning and burned, destroying some of the ani­ stead. mals and equipment within. Later that same year, a 37 stall stanchion barn was built, which still stands today. The farm was basically a Holstein dairy herd and crops. The Ackleys raised chickens, sheep and hogs. In 1960, Donald and Evadene Sommer bought the A large garden supplemented their food supply. farm and added another 148 acres when they

Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries purchased the northeast comer ·, D~ · zter Trail and M- this land. The contract was paid off in 7 years. Art 52. Don and son Douglas formed , e partnership and Frank then bought the farm across the road. All of ·'Sommer Farms" in 1967. Frank and Vesta Woods Wild's children, Dwayne, Olin,Pauline, Donald. Louis and Marilyn, were born in the old farm home. The family eventually moved across the road and turned the old house into an onion storage building.

Art married Muriel E. Ackley in 1935. They remod­ eled the onion storage building and added 3 more rooms. Two children were born, John J. in 1936 and Alma M. in 1938. Muriel was committed to the Ypsi­ Sommer Farms from the air lanti State Hospital in 1939 and died there 26 years later. Douglas and Terry (Greenamyer) were married in 1969, and that same year a milking parlor was erected Art had built a new barn in 1928. It was a truss roof allowing the herd to enlarge from 56 to I 00 dairy cat­ barn, the tirst constructed on the ground and pulled tle. In 1978, 90 acres were purchased from Vernon into place by horses. It nad an open loft with no center Asquith and in 1980, additional land was purchased posts. People crune from all over to see this new con­ from the Millhouse farm, bringing the total acreage to cept. (The reader may want to go back to the story of 415. the McCleer farm to read more about this concept.) The barn was 70 feet by 36 feet with a central alley, Sadly, in 1992 Donald was killed in a farming acci­ left side for sheep and right side for work horses. A dent Douglas and Terry still operate the farm today granary, corn crib and tool shed were also built. with the help of their children, Melissa, Eric and Todd. Later on, the farms were run by Art, Frank, Louis, The Jacob Wild Farm Dwayne and Donald, fom1ing the Wild Brothers Part­ nership. Onions, corn, hay, oats, sheep and beef were - raised. Later. potatoes, carrots and sugar beets made­ truck farming possible.

Peppermint was added and the tnint still at Stock­ bridge on Morton Road was built. A boiler from Henry Ford's yacht fired by natural gas produced .he steam to extract the mint oil.

John and Alma both attended a one room school 2 mites from home at Baseline Road and Fitchburg . ··- Road. We had nine different grades. About 24 chi!- ~ . : : · ·:t:.·::?'.:-_,._- ". · dren attended. We walked o;rode our bikes, often ... :.:.:, -. :..:· . q:.-..~ r~.-.. -.. _ ": ~ · · "-: - • ·· ·-- -~· < · · · stopping at the Shew farm halfway home. Ruth Shew The Jacob Wild farm on Baseline Road would m their outside pump. By Thomas and Alma Wild Back In 1966, Consumers Power bought a right of way Grandfather Jacob Wild was born in Wurtemberg, across our farm. 250 feet by 18 acres long. Germany and migrated to America in the mid 1880's. After arriving in America, he met and married Caro­ Alma married Thomas A. Back in 1958. Tom was line Seigrist, also from Germany. To this marriage, drafted and spent two years in the Army. Their son, seven children were bom Alan W. Back, was born in 1961 at the Army hospital in California. Randy A. Back was born in 1963 in In 1903, Jacob Wild entered into a land contract with Jackson, Michigan. We all lived with Art Wild. Tom the Charles Bird estate to purchase about 220 acres for drove semi-trucks for 20 years; then started up an ex­ $626.47. The family moved into the old farmhouse on cavating business which continues yet.

Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries John married Julia Kalis in 1962 and had a son, Kim Luella Park for $2,633.00. Finally, on March 16, Arthur Wild. John was killed on Valentine's Day, 1908, Luella sold 10 Carl Hannewald for $3,250.00. 1963, at the railroad crossing at M-106 and Territorial Road. Kim is now married and has 3 children and Carl Hannewald was born in Waterloo Township in lives in Ludington. 1853 and was a lifelong member of St. Jacob's Evan­ gelical Lutheran Church. He married Charlette Kassell I Randy married Vera Humphreis. After the divorce, he in 1870. In 19 I 0, Carl and Charlotte sold the farm to now lives us and helps Tom with the excavating busi­ his son, Ezra and his wife, the former Ada Hut­ ness. tenlocker. Ezra and Ada were married in 1910. Ezra and Ada payed $4,500.00 for the farm. I Alan married Misty Cooper. They are both natopathic doctors and live in Henderson, Nevada with their In 1924, Ezra bought another farm and Ada insisted on daughter, Sierra Sage Back. a brand new house.

In January 1963, Art and Frank split up the farm. Art took the farm on the south side of Baseline Road. Frank took the farm on the north side. The partnership continued until Art passed away at his home in 1974 at the age of 94 years. The farm passed from my father to me in 1973.

The farm was rented out for farming from 1974 to 2008 by Ed Haft. He grew wheat, com and soy beans. Zeitz Farms, Inc. currently lease the farm.

Carl Hanoewald Farm The old house and the new house

Ezra died in a horrific automobile accident in 1975. The farm passed to Ezra's two sons, Martin and Law­ rence. Martin passed away in 2000 and Lawrence died in 2003. Martin's son, Robert purchased the farm from Lawrence's estate in 2003 and continues to farm the land to this day.

Gee Farms

Carl Hannewald farm, 14320 S. M-52 ~ -· ~·..-.·.---- .. The Carl Hannewald farm went through several own­ _· :~--~\~~~;;;~-~~ ers before coming into the possession of the Hanne­ Gee Farms around 1920 wald family. Hiram Putnam was the first owner, buy­ By Amanda Gee ing 80 acres from the Government in 1834. In 1860, Hiram sold to Albert Yocum for $2,000.00. In 1872, The original 156 acres of the Gee Fann was deeded in Albert sold 1/2 acre to the North Waterloo Burying 1849 by Mosses Gee. Mosses' family was originally Ground, Inc. to be used as a "repository for the dead." from England, but Mosses had been born in New Ella Rockwell, Albert's daughter, sold the farm to York. These early settlers built the farm's first home

Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries on the comer ofBunkerhill and Baseline Roads. Today, while some produce is still grown for market, planted an orchard and began raising short horn cattle the majority of the farm is dedicated to the production and Shopshire sheep. and cultivation of nursery stock. Gee Farms has grown into the largest retail nursery in the state of Mosses had only one surviving son, Alonzo. When Michigan and specializes in rare and unusual conifers. grown, Alonzo continued his father's work with the Gary and Kaye have four daughters; Kary, Michele, livestock and the orchard. He would later build the Lisa (Cram) and Amanda. During the spring season second farmhouse, currently the house next to the mar­ all four girls along with many of the grandchildren ket, where he raised his children, Lloyd and Blanche return to work at the nursery and three of the girls still (Peach). reside on the farm. Kary and Amanda maintain full time positions as well as the oldest grandson, Coti. Lloyd Gee expanded the livestock to include dairy Morehouse Farm cattle. He also dabbled in real estate and developed the land around Batteese Lake. Lloyd and his wife, Lelah, had three children; Wendell, Doneita (DeYannond) and Beverly (Caskey).

Wendell, being the only son, worked the milking op­ erations after his father's retirement. He worked the farm full time until the late 1950's when he served two years as the township supervisor. In 1961 he was elected as the Jackson County Drain Commissioner, where he worked until 1978. Wendell had two chil­ dren, Gary and Susan (Mitteer).

Gary began his work for the family at age nine when he opened a produce stand on a picnic table in front of Harold Morehouse home on left and Kevin More­ the farmhouse. After a barn fire in 1964, Gary got out house home on the right. of the milking business. He married Kaye Wilson in 1967 and they began growing commercial vegetables By Julie Schneider and expanded the produce market. They grew pickling cucumbers and peppers for Green Bay Foods for thirty George C. Morehouse and his wife, Mary A., were one years. During this time, the produce market expanded of the first families to arrive in the Fitchburg area. The into bedding plants, vegetable plants, trees and shrubs. original homestead was a log home at 5025 Williams­ In 1996, the farm discontinued the commercial vegeta­ ton Road on the east side of the road. In 1864, they ble operations and began to focus on the nursery and purchased their property from the Van Ripers. Mary landscape market. Gary increased the original farm to took care of the transaction as George was enlisted in include acreage in Pleasant Lake, Bunkerhill and the Civil War at the time. George returned from the Fitchburg. war and they had four children, George Hollis, Frank C., Lucy and Edgar. In 1882, George C. purchased land across the road from Edwin Hawley. A fann­ house stood on the property at the time and eventually three generations ofMorehouses resided there to­ gether, Frank C. and his wife, his son, Hugh and his wife with grandson Harold and granddaughter Joanna. Currently, Harold's son, Kevin and his wife, Sherry, reside at the house at 5060 Williamston Road.

In the late l 880's, George and Mary built a new home at 5025 Williamston Road to replace their log borne at a cost of $1, 164.00. George died in 1897 and in 1906, Mary transferred the west side of the road to her son, Frank C., and the east side of the road to George The bounty at Gee Farms, Autumn 1963 Hollis. George Hollis never married and Mary

Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries continued to live in her home with him until she died John George Schumacher and his wife, Dorothea, in 1928. George Hollis died in 1954. This house on bought the farm and moved from Mt. Hope Road. the east side, after a few modifications, still exists and John was a blacksmith and he moved his shop from is the home of Harold and Dorothy Morehouse, great Mt. Hope Road, a mile south ofHannewald Road, to grandson of the original owner. Harold has lived here the farm. John grew and sold cranberries to pay for since 1957. the farm. Also on the farm were huckleberries in abundance. In 1907, Frank Morehouse was living on the farm at 5060 Williamston Road. Thady Hamilton and his The farm had a dozen cows and l 00 sheep along with crew helped him build his barn. Thady Hamilton built hogs and chickens. The normal crops of corn and most of the barns in the area at that time. That barn wheat were grown. Both the house and the barn have stone foundations and there is a stone fence behind the barn. Tamarack timbers support the roof of the barn which is constructed of hand hewn beams and wooden dowels.

--,.Ir. The farm passed from John and Dorothea to Christian :::..,_-_.:.:... -... --- - -~ -- - and his wife, Paulina From Christian and Paulina, the ,- - . farm went to John and his wife Ida Realy, who grew . . -. ~·-· -~i . . -- .f:- ~ I I. " { } 1- . ... , •• '- up just down the road where Schumacher Road ends at '-~ii~i~~~ ;~~~r~f~'. :-----· Waterloo-Munith Road. Lewis was next in line when he and his wife, Vera Lehman, came into possession of ': - ~~-,h~,- ~ ~a> • ~ .. --_.-Iii ., the farm. Vera was the brother of Elmer Lehman who . ~~~~--~ . - - -~ - - - was the Stockbridge postmaster for many years...... •. ;,"': =~.. :...... -· ...... ~ - ~ : .... _.:. Morehouse barn raising Frank and his wife, Mary, had two children, Gennie and Hugh. Gennie married Edward Mears in 1911 and moved to Leslie. She died in 1914 at the age of 19 after a short illness from a ruptured appendix. Frank died in 1965 at the age of98. He is buried in the Fitchburg Cemetery next to his wife, Mary.

Hugh married Daisy Hemstreet and had two children, Harold and Joanna Harold had four sons, Kevin, Kim, Kurt and Kent. Joanna married Joe Raciborski and had four children as well, Jim, Ann, John and David. The family farm is still farmed today and is The Schumacher farm with Markle Lake in the registered with the State of Michigan as a centennial background farm. The Morehouse family owns approximately 187 acres on both sides of Williamston Road. Besides The house was on the farm when John and Dorothea Harold and his wife, Dorothy, there are several More- moved in in 1874. It was originally a two family houses that still live on Williamston Road. Kevin, house with the parents occupying a portion of the Harold's son, lives in one of the old farmhouses on the house and a son and his family occupying another part. west side of the road. Kurt, another son, with his wife Electricity came to the house in about 1950 and with it Mary and daughter Stephanie lives on the corner of indoor plumbing. Electricity was late because the Williamston and Fitchburg Roads and currently fanns house was a mile from Waterloo-Munith Road and the family farm as well as operating a trucking busi- there were no other houses on the road. Prior to elec- ness. Harold's sister, Joanna Raciborski, lives south of tricity, the family had a 3-hole outhouse with one of the farm on a piece of the original farm property. the holes closer to the floor to accommodate the chil­ dren. The house was extensively remodeled in 1974. Schumacher Farm The farm transitioned from horses to tractors at about At the end of Schumacher Road in Waterloo Township the same time. The first tractor was a small Ford. The is Markle Lake and the Schumacher farm. In 1874,

Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries horses were kept for a while but since they were no Fink (16 Feb 1902) Harold Fink (22 Jan 1909) Albert longer contributing, they were eventually sold. William Fink (23, May 1911) Raymond Howard Fink (2 May 1913), Mildred Mae Fink (24 Jan 1916), Upon Ralph Schumacher's retirement in 1999, he re­ Irene Elizabeth Fink (3 Aug 1917), and William Chris­ turned from Erie, Pennsylvania and took over the farm. topher Fink ( 4 Mar 1920). The frum consists of about 178 acres not counting the part that is lake. About 70 acres are tillable with the Leonard Fink married Anahdell Eckerson 5 Dec 1931 remainder woods and marsh. The land is leased out to in Jackson Co., MI. She was born on 18 Jul 1909 in Robert Hannewald for farming. Jackson, Co., MI. She is the daughter of Wilbur Eck­ erson and Sylvia Stringham. Fink-Krummrey Farm Historr ""'M-.,_ Leonard and Anahdell had three children: Jean Marie Fink, James Leonard Fink and Jane Ann Fink.

Jean Fink married Don Edward Krummrey on 12 Nov. 1950 in Jackson Co., Ml. He was born in McGuffey, Hardin Co., OH. He is the son of Carl F. Krummrey and Eva Jane Gould.

Two years after Jacob Fink and Anna Maria Tisch were married, Jacob purchased a 40-acre farm in 1871 to the north of Sears Lake (now known as Fink Lake) in the Southwest part of Sec. 34, Stockbridge Township, Ing­ Aerial view of K.rummrey farm, circa 1990 ham Co., ML On 17 Dec 1880, Jacob bought the Southeast 1/4 of Sec. 34, containing 160 acres. Jacob By Mary Krummrey later purchased 80 additional acres in Sec. 34. A 1895 plat map of Stockbridge Township shows Jacob Fink as Jacob Fink was born on Nov. 15, 1842 in Gutenberg, the owner of280 acres on the north and west sides of Germany. His parents are unknown. He immigrated Fink Lake, including 2/3 of the lake. to the United States on 13 Apr. 1868. In the 1916-1921 Rural Directory of Ingham Co., Jacob Jacob Fink married Anna Maria Tisch on 26 Dec 1869 Fink is listed as a farmer owning 270 acres of land, two in Waterloo Township, Jackson Co. MI. She was born horses, and five cattle. A 1922 topographic map shows on 7 Sep 1851 in Kirchheim An Der Eck, Bavaria the name of the lake as Fink Lake. (now Rhineland-Palatinate), Germany. She is the daughter ofWilhem "William" Tisch and Katharine Albert William Fink remembered hearing a story told Elisabethe "Catherine" Hanewald. Her family immi­ about his Grandfather, Jacob Fink, buying land from grated to Pennsylvania in 1852. About 1861, Anna the government for a dollar an acre, and then later sell­ moved to Waterloo Township, Jackson Co., Ml. ing it back to the government for three dollars an acre.

Jacob and Anna had five children: William Fink (16 When Jacob Fink died on 6 Feb 1917, he left the land Aug. 1870), Charles Fink (31 Jan 1872), Jacob Fink ( 4 he owned to his wife, Anna Maria "Mary" Fink. This Oct 1873), George Fink (29 Nov 1876), and Wilhel­ included 270 acres more or less in Sec. 34 and Lot mina Ann "Minnie" Fink (12 Oct 1878). number 3 of Block number 8 in the village of Stock­ bridge. Six years later when Anna Maria Fink died on William Fink married Emma Marie Niethammer on 21Jun1923, all the land passed to Jacob and Anna's 10 Apr 1901 in Stockbridge, Ingham Co., ML She children, William and Emma Marie Fink, Charles and was born on 25 Apr 1875 in Saline, Washtenaw Co. Lyda Ella Fink, George and Phoebe Margaret Fink, and Ml. She is the daughter of David Niethammer and Minnie (George J.) Hurst. (Their son, Jacob Fink, died Elizabeth Herter. in 1895.) One year later, on 17 Jun 1924 all of Jacob Fink's land passed to Charles and Lyda Ella Fink. William and Emma had 10 children: Lucille Wilhel- mina Fink (16 Feb 1902), Lawrence Jacob Fink (12 On 16 Jun 1939, Charles and Lyda Fink received Jan 1904), Lester David Fink (27 Sep 1905), Leonard $385.12 for 3.095 acres more or less for a Highway

Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries Easement Release for the improvement of State Trunk­ like his storages in McGuffey. The Krummreys have line Highway M-106. been growing onions on this muck land near Stock­ bridge for over 75 years. Potatoes and peppermint Charles and Lyda Ella Fink deeded 15 acres in Section were added as rotation crops in the 1940's and 1950's, 34 to Floyd Lady and his wife on 5 Nov. 1941. respectively. George's farther grew onions out east after his family immigrated to the United States. After Charles Fink died on 4 Mar 1945, Lyda Ella Therefore, there have been 6 generations of Fink granted 251 113 acres more or less to Eddie C. and Krummreys farming onions for over 150 years. Elizabeth N. Griffes on 18 May 1945. Two portions of this land purchased by Jacob Fink in 1880, then, later In the early 1960's, Carl F. Krummrey purchased IO owned by Charles Fink, were purchased by Carl F. acres for his homestead along the Northwest side of Krummrey, father-in-law to Jean Marie Fink Fink Lake. Three years after Eva Jane Krummtey Krummrey. One portion was purchased in the mid died on 3 Dec 1998. Larry Edward Krummrey, his 1950's and the other in the mid 1960'. This land is still wife, Mary Ellen Steffey Krummrey and their son, owned and farmed by the Krummreys. Jacob Edward Krummrey, moved to the homestead. This homestead is next to the land Larry's great-great­ According to an 1895 plat map of Stockbridge Town­ grandfather, Jacob Fink owned until he died in 1917. ship, W. Fink owned 80 acres in the Northwest part of Section 33, Stockbridge Township, Ingham Co. In the StowelVEarl Farm late 1930's, Carl F. Krummrey purchased 50 of these acres. By Rhoda McVay

A portion of the 80 acres of swampland in Section 33, Lewis D. Stowell, having received United States Gov­ previously owned by W. Fink and a portion of the land ernment Land Grant approval, moved from New York Jacob Fink owned in section 34 were cleared and to Henrietta Township. On May 5, 1837, he regis­ tered a deed for 330 acres.

Lewis and Margaret Stowell's daughter, Medora, mar­ ried Oliver Clark Earl. Their son, John Clark Earl, was born March 7, 1865 and died August 22, 1945 in Jackson County, Michigan. He married Ada (Addie) Jemisca Wonsey. They had eight children. The 7th child, John Clark Earl, Jr., was born June 19, 1904 and died May 30, 1973. He married Bessie Lake. To this union, three sons were born: Wayne, Gerald and Larry.

The current owner, Gerald Earl, lives on the home­ steaded farm with his wife, the former Syreta Jane Dixon, and their children, Eric Thomas and Mellory Jane. Brother Larry Earl also lives on the farm. William and Emma Marie Fink Jim Moeckel's Farms drained by the Krummreys. It took several years to By Richard Ramsdell clear the swampland by hand and to drain the fields using clay tile and ditches to control the water. The Jim Moeckel of Munith owns two centennial farms. first year Carl F. Krummrey grew onions on the fertile One, through his father's line, is located at Plum Or­ muck land. He planted only two acres. Each year he chard and Mccreery Roads. The other, through his cleared and drained more land and gradually purchased mother's side is on the northeast comer of Sayers and more acreage. He planted willow trees for windbreaks Kennedy Roads. from willow branch cuttings he took from the muck farm in McGuffey, Ohio where his father, George Aaron Moeckel was born in Waterloo Township in Krummrey, farmed beginning in the late 1800's. The 1871, the son of Charles and Dorothea Moeckel. onion storages he built were structurally designed They bought 40 acres at the comer of Plum Orchard

Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries and McCreery Roads. Aaron passed in 194 7 and his Captain Samuel Lewis had three sons, General Samuel, wife, Alvina, in 1961.The farm passed to Wesley and John and Morgan. The Lewis family had traveled from Agnes (Carley) Moeckel. Wesley and Agnes had LLanidloes, North Wales and settle in Rhode Island in four children, Natalie, Rolfe, James (Jim) and Roys­ the early 1600's. Henry Samuel Lewis was the grand­ ton. The farm is currently owned by Jim. son of Captain Lewis, the Revolutionary War hero and the son of General Samuel Lewis. He was born at Gan­ Edward and Eda Carley purchased the 80 acre farm sevoort, New York. at the comer of Sayers and Kennedy Roads in 1893. Edward Carley died in 1923 and his wife, Eda, in In 1833, Henry Saunders Lewis and his wife, Eveline, 1943. Upon Eda's death, the farm passed to Agnes traveled to Michigan to homestead on their farm until who married Wesley Moeckel and now belongs to Michigan became a state and they were able to pur­ Jim Moeckel. The Moeckels and Carleys mentioned chase the land. This was before Stockbridge was born. in this article rest in the Munith Cemetery. They homesteaded from 1833 to 1837 when Michigan became a state and they purchased their farm for $1.00 an acre from the United States Government. The fam­ The Lewis Farm ily still has the original deed with President Martin Van Buren's signature. The land was referred to as Sec. 16- Prirnary School Land. (Editors note: Proceeds from the sale of land in section 16 of each township were to be used for the support of public schools in that town­ ship.) The land now has the address of State Hwy M- 52, Stockbridge, MI 49285.

Over the years, the Lewis homestead increased in acre­ age and after many more years decreased in acreage. The last remaining 160 acres were divided into two 80 acre parcels and later purchased by two of Leslie A. Lewis's sons, Donald and Ralph.

Leslie A. Lewis and his wife, Ada, had 5 children, Kenneth, Donald, Mary Jane, Ronald and Ralph. Lewis Homestead, 3550 N. M-52. Henry and Ev­ eline Lewis, Electa Lewis (Henry's sister) seated. On January 18, 1958, Donald married Marlene M. Captain Samuel Lewis was in the Revolutionary War Fear. They had 4 children, Leslie (a girl), Donald II, of 1776. He was born in Exter, Rhode Island June 28, Lenore and Lynda. Lenore and Lynda are twins. 1752 and died August 25, 1822. He is buried on his family farm in Northumberland, New York. In August of 1977, Donald and Marlene purchased the south 80 acres from the family. Shortly after the pur­ In 1787, he married Sarah Van Volkerburgh. Sarah was chase, Marlene registered the Lewis farm as a centen­ born March 9, 1768 in Albany, New York, the daughter nial farm with the Michigan State Historical Society. of Johannes and Elizabeth (Meindersen) Van Voker­ burgh. Captain Lewis was descended (John, Samuel, In the early l980's, Ralph and his wife, the former Jonathon, Sylvester) from John Lewis came to West­ Carol Schubert, purchased the remaining 80 acres. erly, Rhode Island in 1661. Ralph and Carol have three children, Christie, Kelly and Tracy. During the Revolution, he became an officer in Col. Gansevoort's Regiment, the 3rd New York, which was In 1984, Donald and Marlene divorced. The farm was merged with the 1st New York in 1781. He distin­ split again and Marlene remained in the house and guished himself at the Battle of Saratoga and defended acreage on the front of the farm with the 4 children .and a hill called Stark's Nob and blocked the British retreat Donald remained owner of the acreage on the rear of and forced their surrender. the farm.

He had lived at Desolution Lake but after the war he Today, in the 21st century, Donald E. Lewis IT and his purchased a farm in Northumberland, a farm that had mother, Marlene, reside in the house on the front parcel been taken from a Tory or British loyalist.

Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries and his father, Donald, now resides on the back parcel, in 19 12. thus keeping the family homestead and heritage intact. Ralph and Carol raised their family and are still resid­ The Walz family intends to continue to pass owner­ ing on their parcel. ship to younger family to continue family ownership.

The Tisch Farm Wilhelm Tisch, born in 1825, and Katharine Hanewald, born 1830, were married in their place of births, Bava­ ria, Germany. To this union eight children were born: Anna in 1851 in Germany, Elizabeth in 1852, William Albert in 1857 and Charles Carl in 1860, all in Pennsyl­ vania, Henry in 1862, Magdelena in 1864, Catherine in 1866 and George Jacob in 1869, all in Michigan.

Charles Tisch married CaroHne Malcho. In 1887, he purchased the farm on Territorial Road. Their son, Ernra or Spike, married Clara Mollenkopf. Two chil­ dren were born to this union; Wilber and Wilma Tisch Rose.

The Lewis farm in 1933 Wilber married Ruth Bareis. Their two daughters, Leona and Betty Jane Tisch Ackley, currently own It is believed that the Lewis homestead and its original more than two hundred acres of the farm. John and acreage is one of the oldest centennial and sesqui­ centennial farms in the state of Michigan. The Lewis family has lived here for over 177 years. Walz Farm

Max Roeckpe, Mary, June, Duke, Wally and Rueben Hannewald

Original Walz farm house The Walz family farm on Waterloo-Munith Road was bought by Christian Walz from the State of Michigan January 18, 1865, the deed signed by Gov. Henry Crapo for $160.00. From time to time the original 40 acres was added to and became 260 acres. The original home was built in 1886. and is still on the fann. It was moved about 100 yards in 1939. Christian's son, Jacob, purchased the farm. His son, Harold, purchased the farm in the 1930's. His children, Duane and Jamie, now own the farm. The farm home now used was built Horses on Territorial Road before it was M-52

Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries Robert H. Mitteer II on Red leading Centennial Parade in 1935. Work crew at Dancers, 1910: Manie Archen­ bronn, Oscar Schmidt, Sylvia Willmore Brown, George Dardy, Guy Ramsdill

Gertrude and Roland Bird

Consummating a deal in Fitchburg

Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries ORGANIZATIONS Stockbridge Area Genealogical/Historical Society The first newsletter was published March 2002 and the first public meeting was held at the Stockbridge United Methodist Church on September 17, 2002. Our speaker was the late Carole Callard from the Library of Michigan. Carole was the winner of the prestigious Filby Award for Genealogical Librarianship and spoke on the holdings of the state library and archives. After that, meetings were held on the third Tuesday of each month.

Some society accomplishments include the purchase of a microfilm reader/printer for the Stockbridge library, performing a yearly tour of the Oak.lawn Cemetery, publishing books on local cemeteries and publishing a quarterly newsletter. The Society's website is at www.rootsweb.com/-misaghs. By Cynthia Grostick Henrietta Senior Center In 2000, the Ingham County Genealogical Society, the Livingston County Genealogical Society, the Genea­ By Shirley Doxtader logical Society of Washtenaw County, the Waterloo Historical Society, the Town Crier and members of the I began attending the Henrietta Senior Center with my Friends of the Stockbridge Library cmne together to mother-in-law in the 1990's. At that time, the group raise money to microfilm the past issues of the Stock­ was known as the Silver Threads Seniors. The Senior bridge newspapers Oate 1880's to 1899). This raised Center has changed locations and brought in new interest for a local genealogical/historical society. members and new leaders.

In October 200 l, eight people met in Stockbridge to While at the Henrietta School at Pleasant Lake, the discuss the possibility ofputting together a society Banjo Club played . Also the Harmonica Club came with the purpose of preserving local and family histo­ and played for us. Donna Mazo played her keyboards ries. The area involved would include the townships and accordion. Several other groups and people came of Stockbridge, Bunker Hill, White Oak, Henrietta, and performed. When we left the Henrietta School, Waterloo, Unadilla, Iosco and Lyndon. Afterwards, we went to the Henrietta Fire Station. We are now at the seven people pictured above (back row: Richard the former Katz School in Munith on Mushbach Road. "Dutch" Ramsdell, Bruce BeVier, Milt Charboneau Since we have been in Munith, we have had floats in and Randy Gladstone, front row: Betty Tmner, Ruth the Lions Club Hallowe'en parade. One year, we had Camp Wellman and Cynthia Tucker, not pictured, an old convertible car in the parade. We also have Kemie King) met to create bylaws, articles of incorpo­ taken part in the Lions Club Festival that is held in the ration and to file paperwork with the Government to fall. We raffied off a lap robe, quilt and a picture. obtain tax exempt status. Also we had baked goods for sale at the time of elec- tions. · In November, 200 I, the following officers were cho­ sen: President, Richard Ramsdell; Vice President; From time to time someone from the Crouch Center in Randy Gladstone; Secretary; Cynthia Grostick; Treas­ Jackson comes out and talks about health issues, such urer; Betty Turner and Historian, Bruce BeVier. The as getting flu shots, blood pressure, heart problems, objectives of the new society were to promote geneal­ diabetes, senior housing and other issues. ogy, history and educational work of a professional nature, locate preserve and index public and private In our group on Mondays and Fridays we have card records and artifacts, make these records available to games. Then on Wednesday we play quarter bingo the members and to the general public, encourage and with a prize for the cover all game. At noon we have a instruct members in genealogical/historical research dinner sent out from the Crouch Center. Any one 60 and maintain quality genealogical/historical standards. years or older is invited. The cost is $2.50.

Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries Golden Years Senior Citizens The annual Stockbridge festiveal, "A Day in the Vil­ lage,' established in 1994 by the SACC, is held on By Shirley Morse Father's Day weekend each year. It provides an op­ portunity for area residents to gather and enjoy a vari­ The year is 2010 and we, the Golden Years Senior ety of activities and events. It provides a forum for our Citizens, have been around since 1972.We meet every area youth to come together and have fun in a struc­ Friday at noon with 12 to 15 people. Some of our peo­ tured environment. The festival also brings in hun­ ple go to Florida during the winter. Sometimes in the dreds of people from outside our area to enjoy our summer the number we have is as many as 20. We beautiful town and bring in revenue to our local busi­ meet at the Stockbridge Township Hall. nesses. In addition, it provides an opportunity for lo­ cal residents and organizations to display their talents. We now pay $2.50 for our meals and $1.00 for table supplies. The $2.50 we get goes to the Tri-County Community events sponsored by the SACC and other Office on Aging. They bring our meals out from community organizitions include "Make a Difference Lansing. We have cake and ice cream the first Friday Day" which recognizes people who volunteer their of every month. time throughout the year and "Summertime on the Square" which hosts entertainment and competitions We still go to Lansing once a month for nutritional on the historical Stockbridge Township Square and in meetings at the Tri-County Office on Aging. Veterans Memorial Park.

We have the library come in the first Friday of every SACC supports area events such as the "Gregory 4th month. We play bingo every Friday, a penny a card of July" celebration, the "Munith Family Festival," the and 3 cents for the coverall. We used to have enter­ Stockbridge Area Education Foundation's "Festival of tainers come in but it got so it was costing too much the Tables" and other fundraising events for the school money. district and community organizations.

The Tri-County Office on Aging is still composed of SACC encourages our youth to participate in the com­ Clinton, Easton and Ingham counties. munity through its Scholarship Program, which recog­ nizes one or more students who work for the better­ Stockbridge Chamber of Commerce ment of the community and show potential for leader­ ship. SACC also offers students community service By Donna Lippen hours for work at Chamber events.

The Stockbridge Area Chamber of Commerce (SACC) "Business After Hours" events are sponsored by was organized in 1994 to help our businesses and resi­ SACC where businesses can gather and network sev­ dents succeed by making our community a better place eral times during the year at local business locations. to live. Such events bring together a representation of the Chamber's membership and other members of the SACC is managed by a Board of Directors, comprised Stockbridge area business community. Speakers are of the President, Vice President, Secretary, Treasurer brought in to present information pertinent to business and.three directors, all of whom are volunteers. The development. Board represents a membership roster of more than 45 businesses and individuals. The Board of Directors SACC's website, www.stockbridge.net, provides a holds open meetings on the second Thursday of each membership directory useful for networking as well as month. The Chamber represents those in the Stock­ an on-line connection for those visiting the web site to bridge School District including the municipalities of ask questions or offer suggestions to the Chamber. Gregory, Munith and Stockbridge. SACC offers benefits to its members including adver­ The Chamber bas helped develop a healthy locale tising in local phone books and newspapers, free list­ where businesses can thrive through sponsoring com­ ings on the Chamber web site, insurance discounts, munity building events such as "A Day in the Vil­ discounts on seminars held by Community Education, lage", "Volunteer of the Year Award," "Father of the and networking opportunities. Membership in the Year Award," "Make a Difference Day" and Stockbridge Area Chamber of Commerce also allows "Summertime on the Square." local businesses and residents an opportunity to show local community support.

Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries -

Gregory Area Senior Citizens providing youth with opportunities to build life skills By Loretta Beal through educational hands-on learning experiences in a safe and fun environment ... have fun, make new friends The Unadilla Township Senior Center opened in 2005 and gain knowledge in many areas. with 14 in attendance under the direction of Bonnie Mahler. We meet in a room at the Unadilla Township Accomplishments: Now that we (yesterday's 4H Office located at Howlett Elementary School. At that members) are the leaders, we hear a lot of stories about time we had 14 in attendance every Tuesday and how much 4H helped kids with their confidence and Thursday; that number has grown to 20+. The first community service, how much fun it was and how officers were Jan Duprie, president; Jean Waters, vice they want their kids to enjoy the same experiences. I president; Loretta Beal, secretary; and Bonnie Mahler, We use Robert's Rules of Parliamentary Procedure treasurer. which is helpful when the kids grow up and have to attend city and township meetings as adults. We hope Lunch, with a suggested price of$3.00, is served at our group will be able to do the same positive things noon; there is a food pantry every other Tuesday for when they have their kids. those attending and penny bingo is played every Thursday. Meals are prepared in Hartland and brought Visiting Sacred Heart, Stockbridge Country Manor to Gregory by site hostess Karen Kault who also deliv­ (until it closed) and other area adult care homes has ers meals on wheels in the Gregory area every day. been a part of our community service involvement for many years. Also, in 1995 we started doing the We have taken trips, which are open to the public, to Adopt-a-Highway program. Other contributions have the Holland Tulip Festival, Turkeyville and Franken­ been collection for the Stockbridge Outreach. Some of muth. our leaders and youth participate in the Waterloo Farm Museum's Pioneer Days. Jn 2008, we elected Walt and Dolores Frysinger as our first king and queen for the senior prom at W ebers in 20 l 0 Officers include Becca Maus, president; Sammie Ann Arbor. Paul and Loretta Beal were elected in 2009 Minger, vice president; Danielle Sidebottom, secre­ and Harold and Ruth James were king and queen in tary; Kendall Oleski, treasurer and Kayla Austin and 2010. We have a float in the Gregory 4th of July pa­ Alex Wilson, trustees. Community leaders are Janice rade that carries the king and queen along with other Lasko, Diane Wilson and Lynda Minger. They are seniors. helped by a group of 17 leaders, some of whom are the children of past 4H leaders: Betty Jason's daughter, In March 2010 the senior center was renamed the Julie Taylor, Jon and Amy Taylor, and brother Jake Gregory Area Senior Center and elected new officers. and Christi Taylor, Steve Opp, and Danielle Marshall. They are Loretta Beal, president; Dick Ellsworth, vice We also have Barry and Joanne Maus, Sue Oleskei, president; Mary Ann Siegel, secretary and Margaret Michelle Haines, Sue Fowler, Jeff Patrick, Sandy Car­ Kunzelman, treasurer. In the future we hope to take penter and, of course, Margie Pollok. Several of our more trips, sponsor once-a-month blood pressure and leaders also serve on the 4H council and also as Super­ blood glucose testing and exercising by walking in the intendents of the individual 4H livestock projects. gym. Anyone 55 years or older can join the seniors Ron and Amy Wilcox, Steve Opp, Pat Salow, Susan with suggested dues of$5.00. Spouses of any age are Fowler, Jon Taylor, Bev and Kim Smith are a few. welcome. Currently there are 55 members.

Join us for two days of fun and fellowship. To make a In 2010 Margie Pollok was recognized for 38 years of reservation or for more information, call Dick Ells­ service to 4H. She is currently our tin punch and worth at 517-851-8881. stained glass leader and also donates a lot ot time dur­ ing the fair, judging projects for the Crafts and Foods.

Happy Hustlers 4H Club Jn 1995 Beverly Smith took over as Community 4H is the largest youth development organization in Leader for the previous leaders. She was joined by the world with a vast number of learning experiences Amy Wilcox to help handle the large group averaging in a variety of interest areas. Our organiz.ation's motto 75 to 100 members. In 2002, Karen Satow and Robin is "Make the best better." We accomplish this by Schneider took over for Bev and Amy.

Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries 4H softball had begun to taper off as a state activity and provide those in need with eye exams and glasses. and more of the older kids attended other statewide Through Project KidSight, we test children 1-5 years functions . .Jn 1998, Sarah Smith attended State ex­ old for eye problems. We sponsor Little League and change in Canada. Jamie Smith and Tim Salow also Farm Teams and many school programs from early participated a year ago, going to Chilson County, Wis­ childhood through high school. We honor students of consin. the months and their families. Our scholarship pro­ gram, in honor of deceased Lions, began in 1987. As The National 4H Congress is a great opportunity for of May, 2009, 689 students have received scholarships 4H members from across the country to come together in the amount of$264,850.00. We donate to the and learn about community involvements, cultural Stockbridge Area Education Foundation, High School diversity and service to others while meeting new Band and Choir, Stockbridge Community Outreach, friends in Atlanta, Georgia. 4H National Congress Ambulance and Fire Department Equipment, Village was attended by Michelle Haines in 2001 and by Lau­ Memorial Park (pavilion, picnic tables, grill), Unadilla ren Knowlton and Katie Salow in 2008. Township Park (picnic tables and grill) and funds to Eagle Scout to help build the pavilion plus so much From 2001-2002 Michelle Haines and Susan Fowler more. served two years on the 4H council. We are one of eleven State of Michigan Lions Dis­ Being a 4H ambassador is both an honor and a respon­ tricts. We are in District I l-C2. We have had Lions sibility. Ambassadors serve as speakers, emcees, pro­ from our Club serve on District Committees, as Re­ gram facilitators, hosts or hostesses, committee mem­ gion Chair, Zone Chair and 1 District Governor, with bers and in many other youth leadership roles for 4H First Lady. We support District and State Projects and Extension programs and events throughout our including Leader Dog, Eye Bank, Michigan Lions state. Over the past 15 years we have had Danfolle Foundation, Welcome Homes, Radio Talking Readers Wilcox, Casey Glenn, Sara Smith, Nichole Opp, Lau­ Service, Braille Transcribing, Michigan Association of ren Knowlton, Tim Salow and Katie Salow to name a Deafand Hard of Hearing, Bear Lake Camp, Ele's few. Place, Penricton Center for Blind Children, Seedling's Braille Books for Children, Lions All State Band, Exploration Days is a pre-college program that is an Pause with a Cause, Project KidSight, etc. excellent learning tool with some 200 topics to choose. It has been attended by various members of our club Our Club owns and operates the Lions Air Force, our over the last 20 years. Alex Wilson attended in 2009. Parade Unit, fighting the "War Against Blindness." We host Sundaes with Santa and the Easter Egg Hunt At the 2010 State 4H Shooting Sports Tournament, and contribute to "A Day in the Village" and Gregory Dean Wooden, age 10 (Ingham Sharpshooters and Area 4th of July. Happy Hustlers 4H Clubs) excelled at Beginner BB Gun-4th Junior BB Gun Team. Our fundraisers are Monday Night Bingo and White Can Drives. 70% of our funds raised go back to our Stockbridge Lions Club community, 30% go to District, State and International Stockbridge Lions Club was chartered October 13, Projects. 1951. We are a part of Lions Club International, the Munith Rod and Gun Club world's largest service organization, with 1.3 million men and women in 205 countries. Helen Keller com­ By Judy Williams missioned us to be the "Knights of the Blind." Our mission is sightpreservation and helping those in In 1957, to promote marksmanship and encourage need. Our motto is "We Serve." firearm and hunter safety, a group of firearm enthusi­ asts formed the Munith Rod and Gun Club. For the Duane Baldwin was Charter President. John Dancer, first two years, the burgeoning group shot clay pi­ still a member, is the only charter member still living. geons, called trap, at Dave Ashbaugh's farm and rifles Our current President is Thomas Clark, taking office at the R. H. Reno Post. Then in the spring of 1960, July 1, 2010. At this time we have 52 members. this group purchased 30 acres along Fitchburg Road from Dale Messner. This year, 2010, marks the clubs Our Club is very active in our community, providing 50th anniversary at this location, which features a rus­ many services. We collect and recycle eye glasses tic clubhouse, four trap fields and a pistol range.

Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries Throughout its history, the club has been home to of Veteran's Memorial Park by Duranczyk, Campbell, many state trap champions. Past President Dwayne the Rockalls and some of the young artists of the Kitley recalls a competitive shoot at the club when the Stockbridge area. The next year a larger project was Munith team needed a score of at !eat 48 of 50 to win. planned for the brick alley leading from W. Main Ken Kitley's daughter in law, Connie, was next up on Street to the parking lot behind the businesses. The the last squad with Ken's shotgun. He told her if she ALLEY GALLERY, with historic postcards trans­ could break 48 or better he would give her the gun. ferred onto the walls, was painted by the same people Connie broke 49 and Ken gave her the gun. and more volunteers as well. Several individuals and businesses contributed to the success of these two pro­ From the mid-60's through the 80's, the club was jects. popular for its Friday Night Under the Lights shoots and elimination and protection shoots. In 2009 Rod The group dropped the June show but continued to and Kathy McClinchey donated lights in hopes of re­ hold the February Ron Fillmore Memorial Art Show, starting shoots after dark. started in 1999. The annual show has been well re­ ceived by the community and draws a number of art­ Everyone is welcome to come out and enjoy the facil­ ists from beyond the immediate area and also includes ity and friendly folks at the Munith Road and Gun the efforts of elementary students of Laura Bowen and Club, located at 11455 Fitchburg Road in Munith, high school students of Jay Langone. The show was west of Stockbridge and north of the Waterloo State moved from the Township Hall to the First Presbyte­ Recreation State Game Area. Open shooting and prize rian Church Education Building in 2006, a ground shoots are held Friday evenings April to October. In level venue. The Fillmore Show is presently the only addition, to make itself available to Boy Scouts and sponsored event by the Stockbridge Area Artists 4H clubs, the club conducts Michigan Department of though many of the artists participate in other events Natural Resources Hunter Safety Classes each fall. elsewhere.

Friends of the Stockbridge Library Town Hall Players

Friends of the Stockbridge Library was organized in By JefTBoyer the early eighties. The founding members were Nati­ alie Asquith, Ruth Dancer, Ann Nichol and Erma After teaching for five years in other school districts, I Streets. was hired by Stockbridge Schools in 1994. I began teaching after school drama classes as well as an act­ For several years it was an informal group of library ing class as part of the middle school exploratory pro­ supporters before gaining its current status as a tax gram. After hearing many comments from parents exempt organization in 1993. Its sole purpose is to aid about their days in high school plays, I decided to the library in serving its local patrons. Friends of the make an attempt in getting a group of people that Stockbridge Library were project sponsors in the 1998 would be interested in forming a theatre group. With library expansion. The Friends continue with its fund­ the help of Jo Mayer, I put an ad in the paper and had raising which includes a silent auction in November, a our first meeting in September 2000 with about 12 perennial exchange in May and several book sales. people in attendance. It took 4 monthly meetings to The Friends hope to continue to help our local library decide where we would perform, what play we would serve its patrons as best it can. perform, the dates of the performance, create a name Stockbridge Area Artists for the group and who would direct the play. Our first play was "Cheaper by the Dozen" performed for one Late in the l 990's, a small group of like-minded peo- weekend in May 2001. I also directed the play with pie got together to promote a love and an appreciation the help of Linda Conrad ofMunith. School Board of art in the Stockbridge area Early participants were member (at that time) John Ocwiea played the lead. Deb Duranczyk, Deb Campbell, Barbara Anderson, Since then he has not been in any more plays but has Bev Glynn, Jay Langone, Art and Diane Rockall and been a faithful supporter and has attended many of our Dorene White. The group met at the high school art shows. We had four shows with the last one being room for a time, working on their original art work sold out with standing room only. Our second show which led to art shows in the Township Hall during the was "Aaron Slick from Punkin Crik" with former annual Day in the Village for several years. In August Stockbridge teacher Archie King in the lead role. This of 1998, a mural was produced in the Children area was performed in October of2001 just a month after

Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries the 9/11 tragedy. Since the country was in great raising money for draperies for the windows. We have mourning and many activities were being cancelled, I a long way to go unless we get some large donations was urged by many prominent citizens to cancel our from local citizens or groups. show. Being a person that resorts to comedy to get through hard times, I ignored their request and had cast My dream would be to build a state-of.- the-art per­ and crew continue with the show. "Aaron Slick" forming center that would be shared by the school played to a full audience with six shows in two week­ band, choir and other groups that bring in perform­ ends. ances. I want Stockbridge to be a destination place for people outside the community. THP also serves as an alternative to a family night out. Hundreds of people come to each production from not THP's website is http://facebook.com/l/ just the community but from communities near and di 137.www.townhallplayers.org. far. Michigan Friends of Education THP has performed 3 to 4 productions a year by using Michigan Friends of Education is an affiliate of the strictly the talented people direct from our community. Library of Michigan and is recognized as an important THP has served as a training ground in the perform­ part of the state's literacy and book program. We pro­ ance arts and technical theatre. vide books at no cost to a wide variety of social or­ ganizations that serve the needy. This includes disad­ THP has positively changed lives of dozens of people. vantaged readers, the ill, the incarcerated, senior citi­ Many people have gone on to college with a focus in zens and the handicapped. some area of theatre due to our group. New friend­ ships have been made that span generations. Engage­ Michigan Friends of Education acts as a central ware­ ments and marriages have occurred as a result ofTHP, house which allows publishers to make donations to as well as some people deciding to move to our com­ our non-profit organization, while at the same time munity after traveling a distance to see many of our serving hundreds of worthwhile and qualified non­ shows. Some people have made a comment to me that profit organizations and thousands of needy children when they see the movie, "It's a Wonderful Life." with and adults every year. Jimmy Stewart, they think of me because they can't imagine what their life would be like ifl hadn't started We are a nonprofit, tax exempt 501©(3) public char­ THP. That's the best compliment I could receive. ity. We are one of two publicly funded charitable Though I have directed the majority of the plays, other foundations in Michigan that receive and distribute wonderful directors have included Mike Glair, Kim books and related materials to qualifying individuals. Williamson, Larry Torrey and Joy Fahmie along with Michigan is unique in this type of service. several others. Michigan Friends of Education works toward a better After performing many fantastic comedies and dramas, tomorrow by increasing the academic achievement and THP performed its first musical, "Sleepy Hallow," in reading skills of children and needy adults in Michi­ October 2008, which featured a headless horseman on gan. an actual horse upstairs in the Town Hall. "Peter Pan," which was performed in November 2009, was the first Michigan Friends of Education rescues beautiful us­ musical with a live orchestra. The cast and crew of able books and materials from being destroyed by so­ over 60 people played to sold out shows 7 times. liciting donations from publishers and distributors who have overstocked or outdated inventory. These dona­ One thing I should mention is that our group's success tions are from companies and corporations throughout is also owed to Barbara Krusinski, who is affection­ the USA. We have the capacity to serve an estimated ately referred to as Grandma Barb by many of our 855,000 people. members .. Our extensive network of distributing reading materal THP has provided actors for the annual cemetery tour absolutely free (no hidden costs) to organizations that put on by the Stockbridge Area Genealogical/ include Title One programs, migrant education, bilin­ Historical Society, sponsored community education gual education, special education, adult basic educa­ sports teams and spent almost $7,000.00 installing tion and other social service agencies. curtains on the Town Hall stage. We are currently

Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries These organizations in turn distribute directly to the every two or three years. This was our fundraiser for children and adults they serve. By donating books, the weather alert system. magazines, craft supplies and literary enhancing items, Michigan Friends of Education works as a cooperative Each year at Christmas we adopt several families and network to qualified social organizations on an equal supply food, gifts and clothing. We donate to the In­ per-capita basis as opposed to first come, first served. terfaith Shelter in Jackson and the Salvation Anny. In addition we do the Lions projects: Leader Dogs for the Michigan Friends of Education is located at P. 0. Box Blind, Bearlake Camp, Michigan Eye Bank, Braille 183, 171 Kuhn Street, Gregory, Michigan 48137. For Transcribing, Radio Reading Service, Project Kidsight further infonnation, visit our website at mifriends.org. and Welcome Home for the Blind. We are as Helen Keller asked of us, "Knights of the Blind." Munith Lions Club By Charlene Chrisman We supply glasses for anyone in need in the commu­ nity. This past year we purchased 5 pairs of glasses. The Munith Lions Club was chartered January 1954. We supply them as our funds hold out. We have We now have 21 members with 13 active. We may be helped with fuel oil, cataract surgery, a child with can­ small but we are very active. We have had 3 district cer and money to help a student attend college. We Governors from our club. The Stockbridge Lions Club have donated to "JAWS" and money over the years to was our sponsor and at that time we were in the same the Henrietta Fire Department. We also supported a district. We are now in different districts but we still Little League team for years and a Boy Scout Troop at work together. We do the food concession at their Katz School while it was in operation. We did sight Monday night Bingo and several of our members are screening every year at Katz School until it closed. pilots in the Stockbridge Air Force. We do whatever we can to help the people in our com­ In the past we worked with the American Legion, Mu­ munity. We are also incuding the Pleasant Lake area nith Post to tear down the old hotel and build a com­ as their Lions Club has disbanded. We now have sev­ munity park which we now own and maintain. eral members from Pleasant Lake in our club.

With the help of the community we put up Christmas We believe in the Lions motto, "WE SERVE." BUT decorations each year, lights across the streets and a WE NEED HELP FROM THE COMMUNITY TO nativity scene. We are looking for more help this sum­ KEEP SERVING. When you see us on the comer mer to redesign the decorations and be ready for this selling white canes, reach deep into your pockets for next year. now you know where your money goes. If you can't afford to help with funds we will gladly take a few As we have had several tornados in Munith with death hours of your time when we clean the park, put up and much damage, we have installed three severe Christmas decorations or help sell white canes. weather alert systems. There is plaque on the system in the park dedicating it to the young boy who lost his Be a Munith Lion for a day or forever! We would love life in 1982. We have one in our park in Munith, one to have you join us. We meet at the Waterloo Town­ at the Henrietta Fire Station and one at Coachman's ship Hall {Old Katz School) the 2nd and 4th Tuesdays Cove at Portage Lake. We have taken on updating the of the month. existing sirens and purchasing three more in the future Masonic Lodge as a club project. We will really need the community support for this effort. Stockbridge Lodge No. 130, Free & Accepted Masons, was founded in 1860 and its first regular communica­ Every Hallowe'en for as long as we have been a club tion was held on February 7 of that year under a spe­ we have a big parade and party for young and old. cial dispensation from the Grand Lodge of the State of The parade is longer than our main street. We give Michigan, with Gilbert E. Corbin in the East as the away prizes for the floats. We have candy, popcorn, first Worshipful Master and his officers, all being donuts and cider. This is always a big event for our Charter Members-a few of whom were: Gilbert E. small town. Corbin, Charles G. Cool, William W. Stevens, J. W. Gillman, A. M Gear, William S. Cool, Mason Branch, We started the Ox Roast which developed into the F. S. Fitch and J. F. Van Syckle. Family Festival which was a yearly event but now is

Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries The original meeting place of the Lodge was above the The Stockbridge community is well known throughout H.P. Everett Hardware, a wooden store building Michigan, Indiana and Ohio as a good place to get which stood on the site of the present Lodge Hall. In some quality motorcycle rider training. The Stock­ 1903, this sight was purchased by the Masons and a bridge Community Schools and their Adult Education new brick building erected with the Lodge rooms on Department should be very proud to know that they in the second floor, the lower floor being occupied by the part have been responsible for saving many lives by W. J. Dancer Co. and short time later the lower floor being a part of motorcycle training. was purchased by the W. J. Dancer Co. Ownership of the second floor is still held by the F. & A. M. The The GWRRA Motorist Awareness Division volunteers first floor is currently occupied by the Stockbridge have also worked with some of the drivers education Pharmacy. classes trying to teach our youth about motorcycle awareness. Several annual medical first aid and AED The Mason Lodge has recently been working with the classes have been taught in the Stockbridge Mason community schools and parents on a Child Identifica­ Lodge for the GWRRA over the years and many mem­ tion Program to help if a child becomes missing or is bers have been trained in life saving techniques. abducted. We have sponsored youth baseball teams and participated in the Stockbridge Community The GWRRA has participated in the Stockbridge "Day Schools Festival of Tables. in the Village" and some members have participated in the Annual Motorcycle Clubs Day that has been a big The present officers of Stockbridge Lodge No. 130 F. success the last few years fu Stockbridge. & A. M. are Williiam Stiger, W.M.; Ronald Miller, S.W.; Greg Uihlein, J.W.: Rick Reynolds, S. D.; Wil­ The present GWRRA Region D Directors, Ron & liam Reynolds, J. D.; Andy Schuhart, Secy.; Harvey Dianna MiJler, and the GWRRA Region D Member­ Morrell, Treas.; Ronald Lapata, Tiler; James E. Miller ship Enhancement Coordinators and 2008-2009 Inter­ II, Marshal; Robert Cunningham, Steward; Brian Hol­ national Couple of the Year, Ken & Rita Moffitt, are loway, Steward. both residents of Stockbridge. Region D consists of the states of Indiana. Michigan and Ohio and it is the Golden Wing Road Riders Association second largest region in the world with 11,000 plus The Golden Wing Road Riders Association (GWRRA) members. Further information can be found at is a Motorcycle Riders Association of primarily Honda www .gwrra.org or www .gwrra-regiond.org. Goldwing and Valkerie owners but all brands are wel­ Stockbridge Branch, Capital Area District Library come to belong and participate in the planned activi­ ties. The GWRRA is a worldwide not-for-profit non­ By Paul Crandall religious and non-political social welfare and educa­ tional organization of approximately 80,000 members. The avid demand for service that has marked the It is a family oriented volunteer association and the Stockbridge Library's history since its 1902 founding officers are appointed, not elected. by the Home Culture Club continued through the 1980's, 90's and 2000's. In 1998, the Library became The G WRRA has several members and officers that part of the newly formed Capital Area District Library, live in or around the Stockbridge area and have been and over the next several years open hours were in­ instrumental in working with the Stockbridge Commu­ creased at the Branch. In 1999, the Stockbridge com­ nity Schools in helping provide many rider education munity provided an expansion/renovation that brought classes and seminars for many GWRRA members and the building's square footage from about 1,430 to other motorcycle riders. about 3.400. This was accomplished with funding provided by Stockbridge Township, the Friends of the The Stockbridge High School and the Heritage Ele­ Stockbridge Branch Library and a grassroots fundrais­ mentary School parking lots are both approved train­ ing drive involving many local individuals and groups. ing sites and have been used for several motorcycle The new layout allowed the Library to establish a training programs to train standard two wheel motor­ separate children's area, a program area and computer cycles, trike (three wheeled motorcycles) and side car space. Programs and activities held inside the building instructors from all over the USA and Canada as well blossomed. Another significant improvement in 1999 as numerous annual classes for GWRRA members and was the automation of the Library's circulation system. others. During the first decade of the 2000's both the size and

Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries and use of the collection increased dramactically and adopt families to buy Christmas gifts for. The Ameri­ the Library continued to maintain a very busy pro­ can Legion Woman's Auxiliary then holds a" wrap­ gramming schedule serving all age groups. ping party'' for us. This enables the troops to come Following Sharlene Tietsort's tenure as bead Librar­ together, gather and wrap all the gifts while enjoying ian, Marsi Darwin became the head with Paul Crandall some holiday cheer and learning the real meaning of assuming that role in 1997. Christmas.

The mix of formats with the collection has changed To guide and mentor the girls through their scouting with the times. Vinyl records were replaced with cas­ years we have a wonderful group of leaders, co-leaders settes and then CDs. DVDs were integrated into the and adult volunteers. None ohhis could be possible media mix as they became popular. More recently the without their countless hours of time and dedication. Library has established a growing collection of e­ The Stockbridge area Girl Scouts are growing up as books and e-audio books available for download to productive members of their community, following in computers and from there to e-book readers., hand­ the footsteps of the successful women that preceded held devices or whatever these emerging technologies them, mayo of which are now scientists, doctors, poli­ may develop into in the future. ticians, CEO's and Girl Scout Leaders. Stockbridge Garden Club However information formats may change in the fu­ ture, the library remains committed to providing excel­ Renamed the "Growing Gals of Gregridge" for a very lent customer service and to fulfilling its role of offer­ brief time, The Stockbridge Garden Club was formed ing opportunities for people in our community to im­ in 1984 by seven local women in the Stockbridge/ prove their quality of life. Gregory area. The Club plans and participates in civic projects that include spring planting of flowers at the Stockbridge Area Girl Scouts Stockbridge Township Hall, placement of planters at local merchants and hanging baskets around the town By Julie Chapman, Leader, Troop 293 square. The Club also weeds and waters the cemetery memorial flag garden throughout the growing season. The Stockbridge area Girl Scouts include the commu­ They help provide a festive atmosphere at Christmas nities of Stockbridge, Munith and Gregory. To date by decorating the gazebo and Township Hall interior there are 81 registered girls and 18 registered adult for the holidays. In addition to the beautification pro­ volunteers. In 2008 our Girl Scout community, along jects, an annual Christmas donation in the form of with several others in lower Michigan, merged to form adopted families is made to Stockbridge Community the Girl Scout Heart of Michigan council. As mem­ Outreach and a memorial donation is made to the bers of this council the girls participate in a variety of Friends of the Library in honor of current or former activities, events and camps. Locally the girls attend members lost. troop meetings within their age group. Age levels range from kindergarteners, whom are referred to as To raise funds (and show their and other's gardens), "Daisys," all the way to high school seniors, who are the Garden Club has hosted several garden walks fea­ called "Ambassadors." Every year the girls attend a turing the beautiful grounds and gardens of homes in fall camp in Brooklyn. MI at the Camp O' the Hills, Stockbridge, Gregory and surrounding areas. The located on Wamplers Lake. Throughout the year the Club has also hosted two home tours almost 25 years girls also gather for other events such as the mother apart. The latest holiday home tour of2009 show­ daughter tea and daddy daughter bowling as well as cased six gorgeous homes in the Village of Stock­ community service projects. bridge and was a resounding success.

The Girl Scout Promise and Law outline values and The rules of the club are few. The #1 rule is that mem­ standards held high in our Girl Scout Community. bers are required to have fun. No real gardening skill These are the guidelines which foster respect, inde­ is required, only a love for plants and nature and social pendence, responsibility and community service. They good times. Strong backs are appreciated but not man­ are the oaths by which the Girl Scouts serve. The datory. Minimal dues are paid once a year and the Scouts give back in many ways to our local communi­ group meets every other month except June and De­ ties. We are very active with Stockbridge Outreach, cember. When the Club meets, there is often a pro­ volunteering as well as participating in their annual gram covering one topic or another. In the past these Christmas Adopt a Family program. Each year, we have ranged from flowery crafts and creating

Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries cement garden pavers to expert presentations on roses All of this has been possible thorough the generosity and dahlias and a class on grafting. There are usually of numerous donors throughout the years, but espe­ several road trips or other get-togethers, both planned cially through the hard work of a corps of volunteers and impromptu, throughout the year, never mandatory declicated to the mission of the Stockbridge Area Arts but always well attended. The membership limit has Council. expanded over the years to accommodate those inter­ ested in joining the group and now stands at 28. Cur­ Mackinder-Glenn Post 510 American Legion rently, there are 22 active members, and they sit with green and brown thumbs waiting to welcome more.

Stockbridge Area Arts Council Mackinder-Glenn The Stockbridge Area Arts Council is a non-profit Post 510, organiz.ation funded completely by donations and Stockbridge, Michigan staffed by volunteers. Since its inception in 1980, the Arts Council has worked to promote the arts and artis­ tic endeavor in the surrounding community and schools.

Over the years, the group has funded special programs for both elementary and high schools and provided scholarships for students advancing into the study of music and performance arts. The Arts Council has arranged for performances by professional artists in our schools and our students have participated in workshops and assemblies featuring musical forms like the blues, modern dance, ballet, opera, theater and In January 1946 a group of Veterans in the Stock­ the visual arts. bridge area formed an "Independent Veterans Commit­ tee" and wrote up a constitution. The meetings were In 1999, the group established the Ron Fillmore Me­ held in the Stockbridge Town Hall basement In May morial Art Show which is held every year in honor of of 1946 balloting took place as to joining a national the local artist and philanthropist. During this show, organization. This passed with the American Legion artists and students display their work and are judged organization getting the most votes. A temporary by the public for merit prizes. Students are also given charter was issued by the American Legion National the opportunity to participate in contests to create ad­ Headquarters and we became Mackinder-Glenn Post vertising posters for our concerts, which are usually of the American Legion. held two or three times a year. William Domine donated a lot on the south edge of The Arts Council purchased a new sound system, im­ Stockbridge to the Mackinder-Glenn Post and soon proved the lighting, provided a grand piano and con­ after that the Post bought the balance of 14 acres from tributed funds for the purchase of a new stage curtain Mr. Domine. The Legion Hall was built by the help of in the Township Hall. The Arts Council also provided members with Arthur Collins as contractor. initial and ongoing support to the Town Hall Players, a regional theater company established in 2001 that per­ forms in the Township Hall and recently obtained non­ profit status of its own.

For many years, the Arts Council has presented out­ stancling local, Michigan and regional talent at the Stockbridge Township Hall. Local talent was also given a venue through performances staged and cho­ reographed by individuals in the surrounding commu­ nity. Many of these performances are still fondly re­ called by residents and participants.

Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries Various money making projects were begun. The membership, far surpassing the established goals. main one began in 1949 when we had the Down River Amusement Co. come in along with our free fair. The Past Commanders are as follows: Paul Stephens, 1946-1947, 1956-1957, William Caskey, 1947-1948, The Legion sponsors the Boys State program, Junior Wendell Barber, 1948-1949, 1951-1952, Harold Lud­ baseball, oratorical contests, flag distribution and tke, 1949-1950, Pat McDonald, 1950-1951, John proper display of the flag, Memorial Day observances, Nichol, 1952-1953, Robert Rose, 1953-1954, Robert officiates at military funerals, Poppy Day sales for Mackinder, 1954-1955, John Horst, 1955-1956, Elmer disabled veterans and helps in various local activities Lehman, 1957-1958, Walter Barbour, 1958-1959, Max throughout the area. Through our Service Officer, Cool, 1960-1962, Ed Marshall, 1963-1964, Norman thousands of community veterans , widows and or­ Jacobs, 1964-1965, Robert Price, 1965-1966, Loren phans have been assisted in ways too numerous to Collins, 1966-1967, RU$ell Hartsuff: 1967-1968, mention. Floyd Ward, 1969-1970, Richard Switzer, 1970-1971, Lester Herrick, 1971-1972, Robert Frinkel, 1972-1973, Through the years, our Post has continued to evolve, Reid Hartsuff: 1973-1974, Paul Collings, 1974-1975, grow and make our Stockbridge community a better Lloyd May, 1975-1976, Don Negus, 1976-1977, Tho­ place for all veterans and other citizens. The Post mas Collings, 1977-1978, Roland Stoffer, 1978-1979, building has been improved with additions of a beauti­ Lloyd Olsen, 1979-1980, David Stoffer, 1980-1981, ful large hall that seats over 300 guests. This ball is Kenneth Amerman, 1981-1982, Paul Collings, 1983- used for major events, parties, weddings, etc. 1984, Don Davis, 1986-1987, Alvin Myer, 1987-1988, William McLeod, 1988-1990, Clete Carleton, 1990- In 2009, we completely renovated our kitchen to a 1991, Stan Daily, 1991-1992, Richard Koker, 1992- state of the art facility. We have added recreational 1993, Elmer Schulte, 1993-1994, Harold Duquesne!, and other items to improve the functionality of our 1994-1995, Douglas Bowman, 1995-1996, Don Davis, facility, such as upgraded pool table, horseshoe pits, 1996-1997, Tom Clark, 1997-1998, Tom Kelly, 1998- gun safe and more. 1999, James Lobdell, 1999-2000, Al Matyzius, 2000- 2001, Joe Kimberauskas, 2001-2002, Frank Strzaulka, One of our major regular events is our Wednesday Jr., 2002-2006, Don Davis, 2006-2009, William Cool, night Bingo, which is a prime fundraiser for the Le­ 2009-2010. gion Post. An average of over 50 guests routinely par­ ticipate in this entertaining evening. The Post also hosts numerous entertaining events, picnics and par- . ticipates in major parades requiring military honors and flag bearing.

In 2009, the American Legion Post added a major component, the American Legion Riders (ALR). This group consists of veterans and other eligiole motorcy­ cle riders who provide motorcycle motorcades and escort for official functions. They conduct ride events and are a fundraiser for the Post in addition to being a significant recruiting tool and patriotic presence.

The Post also enjoys the activities of our Sons of the Post officers, left to right, Advocate Stan Daily, American Legion (SAL) who are family members sup­ Adjutant Don Davis, Treasurer Jim Peterson, Com­ porting their Veteran relatives through involvement mander Bill Cool, Vice Commander Jeny Kunzel­ with the American Legion. man, Service Officer Ernie Corser and Historian (2009) Pat Davision. Not shown are Sergeant at On Veterans Day, 2009, our Post purchased, installed Arms Bill Romero, 2nd Vice Commander Rick and dedicated a 25 foot flag pole at a local foster facil­ Fusina, Chaplain Paul Beal, 2010 Historian Debbie ity that has numerous veterans in residence. During Clark and Webmaster Sherrie Aly. 2009 we also moved into the age of technology, devel­ oping a web site (www.mackinder-glenn510.org) and Post 510 is a very proud and prominent member or monthly quality newsletter, thereby informing our our Stockbridge Community. We look forward to

Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries our future filled with increasing membership and en­ The Auxiliary works to keep patriotism a part of the riching, entertaining and patriotic events. education of every child and serves the cause of Americanism throughout the community. We strive to American Legion Auxiliary (Legiooettes) enrich the quality oflife of those we serve as well as By Sherrie Aly their members. The Girls State program is a promi­ nent source of education to yoWlg Americans who Jn September of 1949, an independent organization wish to learn about our government. The Auxiliary called the Legionettes was formed. Its purpose was to also provides numerous scholarships to children in our help Mackinder-Glenn American Legion Post 5 IO community. whenever possible. They would help equip the Legion Hall, be of service to the community and provide so­ A primary fundraiser for the Auxiliary is our annual cial activities for the members. The Legionettes were Poppy drive. The Auxiliary also runs our newly reno­ an extremely active and important part ofour Stock­ vated kitchen to provide food for major functions and bridge community. events such as the weekly Bingo at the Post We coor­ dinate numerous activities throughout the year and are Some of the early projects of the Legionettes included an active group in Stockbridge. The American Legion the purchase of a resuscitator for the Fire Department, Auxiliary is largest and most influential women's or­ the erecting of the Memorial Entrance and Gate to the ganization of its kind in the world today, and our Veterans Athletic Field and many other worthy causes. Stockbridge Post Auxiliary Unit is a proud member of The Legionettes contributed both time and money, the American Legion Family. The membership of our such as purchasing wheel chairs, making donations to Auxiliary Unit has continued to grow in numbers and the Red Cross, the Stockbridge Area Community energy! Now in our sixty-first year as an organiz.ation, Chest, the Summer Recreation Program, Community the Legionettes/Auxiliary is continuing as a positive Outreach and the Blood Bank. The Legionettes were influence in the community and hopes to continue to proud to sponsor a young person for Girls or Boys be of service for many more years. State each year, a high school education program to teach government operations. Many of the programs initiated by the Legionettes continue today.

Jn 200 I, Marsha Davis, wife of Post Officer Don Davis, organized the Post 510 Auxiliary. Needing at least I 0 members to form an Auxiliary Unit, she was pleased to have 12 new members. The original Legio­ nettes organization was reformed as the American Le­ gion Auxiliary Unit 5 IO. Today, we have 50 mem­ bers, with 6 original members. Marsha Davis passed away in 2008 and we honor her memory with the Mar­ tha Davis Memorial Scholarship on Honors Night at Stockbridge High School. Auxiliary officers, left to right: Loretta Beal One of the major activities of the Auxiliary is caring (Chaplain), Betty Crocket (Sergeant-at-Arms), Mary for disabled veterans of all wars and conflicts and as­ Greer (2nd Vice President), Cindy Hutchins (Alt 2nd sisting other veterans to regain a place in civilian life. Vice President, Vickie Abidin (President), Geri Ra­ Through personal contact, the Auxiliary brings com­ sizzi (Historian) and Kathy Kimberauskas {Treasurer) fort to veterans and their fu.milies. Our Post 510 Aux­ iliary has been active in providing assistance to veter­ ans in nursing homes and hospitals throughout our Waterloo Needlework Club community. They have provided assistance to numer­ ous veterans and fu.milies. By Jan Powell

Other programs of our Auxiliary includes children and The Waterloo Needlework Club came into being in youth activities, disaster relief and serving the local 1911 when eight neighborhood ladies got together and community (safety campaigns, sponsoring Girl Scout sewed for William Huttenlocher and his six children. Troops and more.) They had a house fire and lost their home and their

Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries mother, Mary. The women enjoyed getting together to Salvation Army, Camp Custer, Polio Fund, Crippled sew and visit so much that they continued visiting each Children's Fund, Cedar Knoll Rest Home, Cancer other's homes on a monthly basis. The original mem­ Fund, UNICEF, March of Dimes. Green Meadows bers of the group were Mrs. Aaron Hannewald, Mrs. Nursing Home, Howell Sanatorium, Coldwater Hope Ezra Hannewald, Mrs. Ina Randolph, Carrie and Sarah School, Ypsilanti State Hospital, Historical Society, Huttenlocher, Kate and Julia Hoffinan and Mrs. Nina Motts Hospital, Waterloo Farm Museum, Stockbridge Miller. Outreach, Hospice, Youth Haven, Jackson Interfaith Shelter, Aware Shelter, Veterans Hospital in Ann Ar­ In the beginning, all the ladies would either work on a bor and Allegiance Hospital Infant and Pediatric De­ quilt or sew or mend for the hostess. When each partments. World War came, the emphasis shifted to sewing for the Red Cross. During the years 1917-1918 the club's Some of the charities are gone but there are still needy secretary books contain a list of 1,044 items that were and hurting people in the community so there.is still a sewn or knitted for the soldiers. Some of the times need for a club such as ours. There has always been a listed were 114 pairs of men's socks, 17 trench caps, purpose for the Waterloo Needlework Club, as it is 126 abdominal bandages, 18 hospital shirts, 40 linen now known. The people who have joined the club · compresses, 154 T bandages, 46 men's sweaters and have always had a charitable heart for the neighbors 56 refugee garments. and community around them. They have found fun, enjoyment and friendships in the process of doing this During the years when everyone heated their homes needle work. We look forward to celebrating our with wood, there were many house fires. The 1OOth anniversary in 2011. Neighborhood Sewing Circle, as the group was known then, would make quilts for the families that lost their All Clubs Day homes. During the Great Depression, the women By Suzin Greenway-Haenggi would provide shoes, clothing and quilts for the chil­ dren of needy families. In 2007 when Stockbridge Village President Russ Mackinder asked me to put on a motorcycle show, I The Friendly Home of Jackson would ask for dona­ knew exactly the road it needed to take. As President tions of vegetables that the women and their husbands of the International Norton Owners Association for the would deliver. A yarn fund was started for knitted past 12 years and a motorcycle enthusiast who has bedcovers that the Mothers Star Club would make for gathered masses of motorcyclists at my home, I have the soldiers at Camp Custer. had experience in conducting large events.

As one reads through the minutes of the secretary's With Russ's suggestion had come the comment, "They books, one is reading history. When they started the used to stop and now they just ride right through town. meetings, the husbands would bring the wives in horse We need to find a way to get them to stay." I had read and carriage, then the men would drive them in cars on about a show in England held on a castle ground called very rough roads,. The men would play cards and All Clubs Day. We could do that here with the Town small children would play while the woman sewed and Hall as our castle. quilted. In the later years, the women were able to drive themselves and the group membership expanded The words became "Stockbridge. A Great Place to over the community. The group always sent flowers, Ride To" and the event was touted as "Come and en­ fruit or cards to other members or people in the com­ joy a day of classic, vintage and remarkable motorcy­ munity who were sick or in the hospital. Through the cles displayed around the village green by clubs in­ decades the women took in dues of 10-20 cents a vited to show their best." meeting. The money would be used to buy material for quilts ifthe material wasn't donated. Also, money Invitations were sent out to local Michigan clubs that I would be sent to different charitable organizations if knew and I found others by asking friends or looking requested or items asked for would be supplies as we them up through magazines. The first year we had were able. clubs of varying philosophy and looks. Also, we dis­ played vintage racing motorcycles and other brands The different charities that the club has supported that have no particular club but are rare and interest­ through its 99 year history include the Jackson ing. The star of the show was a 3-wheeled Morgan Friendly Home, Red Cross, YMCA (war fund), from England brought to the show by former residents

Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries Dick and Wanda Winger. Weather was great and eve­ Festival of Tables, held in March. The Founding ryone asked if we could do it again. Members of the Stockbridge Area Education Founda­ tion were: Tom Clark, Bob Hannewald, Meredith Han­ With the second and third annual All Clubs Day nah, Larry Krummrey, Gary Ludtke, Gillian Peck, shows, not only did the show grow, but the spectators Jack Potts, Darwin Snider, Gary Topping, Dorene came in droves. Weather again worked in our favor, White and Bruce Brown. Members with subsequent and through advertising and word of mouth, riders appointments are: Elizabeth Cyr, Carrie Graham, Beth came from all over Michigan, Ohio, Indiana and Can­ McLellan, Louis Salow, Thomas Tucker, Judy Wil­ ada. The parking for motorcycles extended for two liams and Chuck Wisman. blocks down Elizabeth Street. Larry Klein from GT Motors in Lansing set up his bookstore and vendors Stockbridge Lioness Club were brought in to sell food. Spectators numbered By Sharon Bordine over 2,000, making All Clubs Day the best attended village event by people other than residents of the area. The Lioness Club is a non-profit organization dedicat­ ing time, talent, energy and financial aid to the people Clubs that have attended are: Michigan Norton Own­ of this community, of Lioness District l l-C2 and of ers, Metro Triumph Riders, Riders Association of Tri­ our state. umph (RATS), BMW Touring Club of Detroit, Dues (Ducati) Unlimited, Michigan Sports Touring Associa­ Why join the Lioness? It is a club that gives us a tion, Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Club, Wheels of chance to express concern for human needs through Destiny, American Antique Motorcycle Association, structured productive activities that benefit the com­ American Historic Racing Motorcycle Association, munity. We work side by side with other women who Motor Maids, Michigan Mini-Bike Racing Association want to help others. It is an opportunity for club fel­ and Jedi Knights Scooter Club. Other motorcycles of lowship, for cultural exchange, for meeting with others interest that have been shown are rare example of Brit­ from other areas of Michigan, and for learning from ish trademarks such as Vincent, Velocette, Royal En­ monthly programs on many topics. The club also field, BSA, AJS and Matchless. takes road trips to places of interest such as the Michi­ gan Braille Transcription Unit in Jackson and the September 19, 2010 will be the 4th Annual All Clubs Leader Dogs in Rochester. Parties are scheduled at Day and anticipation is already mounting through the least twice a year, at Christmas and at the end of May. clubs and motorcyclists who enjoy coming to Stock­ We meet at 6:30 p.m. the fourth Tuesday of the month, bridge and riding the surrounding roads. Everyone is September through May, at the First Presbyterian realizing what some have already known: Stock­ Church basement. Board meetings are the second bridge: The Friendliest Motorcycling Village in Tuesday of the month at the same location. M ichigan." The Stockbridge Lioness Club was organized in Octo­ Stockbridge Area Education Foundation ber 1982 by Lion Don Porter and Rachel Cassidy. The By Bruce Brown charter officers were: President, Rachel Cassidy; First Vice-President, Ila Minix; Second Vice President, The Stockbridge Area Education Foundation was or­ Tamara Porter; Secretary, Jean Marshall; Treasurer, ganized on October 12, 2000. The Foundation is a Grace Kester; Tail Twister, Polly Dancer; Lioness separate legal entity from the Stockbridge Community Tamer; Joyce Dickinson, D.irectors, Geneva Radowski, School District. The mission of the Foundation, as Kathy Glover and Peg Dancer. Other members were stated in the by-laws, is to fund programs and projects Ann Barry, Peg Brocker, Edith Brown, Marjorie that create or enhance educational opportunities avail­ Brown, Linda Cain, Joyce Campbell, Beverly Caskey, able to residents within the boundaries of the Stock­ Inna Cronkhite, Mary Finley, Kaye Gee, Helen Mit­ bridge Community School District. Tom Clark was teer, Joyce Novak, Linda Stephens, Doris Turner and elected the first Foundation president. Since its incep­ Sandy Weinman. Lion Don Porter was the liaison tion, the Stockbridge Area Education Foundation has with the Lions Club. Charter Lioness Rachel Cassidy pursued its mission by giving thousands of dollars for and Charter Lioness Grace Kester are still active mem­ community projects, student scholarships and educa­ bers of the Stockbridge Lioness Club. tion grants to classroom teachers. Grants and scholar­ ships are funded through tax-deductible donations and The Stockbridge Lioness Club works closely with a well attended community event and auction, other clubs in our 11 C2 district which includes

Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries Bancroft, Bellevue, Bretton Woods, Delta, De Witt, bridge Community Outreach. The first food bank was Durand, Grand Ledge, Ovid-Elsie and St. Johns. Sev­ in the basement of a church. In 1982 it was moved to eral of our members have held district board positions the middle school and was open once a week. through the years; Rachel Cassidy was Lioness of the year 1982-1982; she and Jennifer Grumelot have both Stockbridge Community Outreach is now located in a been District President, District Vice President and portable building behind the middle school and is open Treasurer. Judy Lentz and Margie Pollok have both Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 9 a.m. to noon been Region Coordinator. and I to 3 p.m. Outreach, along with other rural area community food banks, joined a group called Rural Current members of the club are: President, Sharon Emergency Outreach and is still part of Rural Family Bordine. Vice President, Linda Swan; Lioness Tamer Services along with four other agencies. This is a Grace Kester and Board Members Wanda Brown, benefit to all food banks to help solicit financial and Bridgitte Downs, Molly Howlett (also Newsletter Edi­ direct food assistance. tor) and Margie Pollok.. Other members are Peggy Barnett, Rachel Cassidy, Diane Stowe, Penny Valen­ In the beginning, a health program was provided but · tine and Mary Barber. We were deeply saddened by was no longer needed when Ingham County Health the death of Lioness Barbara Smith this past winter. Services opened an office in Stockbridge.

The Lioness Club gains funding by working with our Outreach helps with clothing, bedding and small sponsoring Lions Club at Bingo every Monday night household items as they are available. It also helps The earnings from the club go back to the community, with food, utility payments, housing, prescriptions and district and state. Locally, these include community transportation expenses. Some of these services are service and scholarship awards, Stockbridge SAESA, funded by grants and careful reports are kept to show Stockbridge Arts Council, Stockbridge Library Fund, how the grant money is used. Stockbridge Community Outreach, Area Girl Scouts, A Day in the Village, 4th of July events, Michigan There are special programs at Easter, Thanksgiving Friends of Education, Foster Care Homes as well as and Christmas for those who qualify. At Easter and local emergencies such as helping people who have Thanksgiving, Outreach provides a complete dinner, been burned out of their homes. Contributions to the and at Easter, bunny bags are provided for children district and state include District EyeGlass Mission under 10 years of age. Christmas dinners and gifts for Trip, Camp Chris Williams, Leader Dog, Lions All­ the family, especially the children, are provided. State Band, Michigan Braille Transcribing, Michigan Eye Bank, Paws with a Cause, Radio Talking Books, Outreach bas wonderful cooperation from individuals, Christmas Stockings to domestic abuse shelters, Wel­ the schools, churches and community groups during come Homes, Diabetes Foundation, Multiple Sclero­ the year and especially during the holiday season. The sis, Penrickton Center for the Blind, Special Olympics, community assistance and all the volunteers help many Seedlings Braille Books for Children, Bear Lake families facing difficulties in our community. Camp, Lions of Michigan Foundation, Ele's Place, St. Vincent's Home and Charities, Salvation Army, Youth Stockbridge Area Emergency Services Authority Haven and Lansing City Rescue Mission. By Sandy Kay

We welcome all women regardless of age to join us for Stockbridge Area Emergency Services Authority fun and sharing work on our many worthwhile activi- (SAESA) was formed in 2006 in response to rising ties. Our motto is "We Serve Too." Contact any Li- operation costs and cutbacks in insurance reimburse- oness member for information. ment that forced Stockbridge Area Ambulance, Inc. (SAAI)-a private ambulance service-to seek alterna­ tive funding. Stockbridge Community Outreach By Jan Dunlap SAAI had been established in 1967 when Caskey Fu­ neral Home announced it was discontinuing its ambu­ Stockbridge Community Outreach has served the lance service that had served the commullity for sev­ Stockbridge community for 29 years. During the re­ eral years. Community leaders and concerned citizens cession of 1981 a group of citizens and clergy formed gathered and formed SAAi with two used ambulances a community assistance organization called Stock- and 23 volunteers.

Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries The Stockbridge Township Fire Department was facing similar difficulties due to unstable economic times. The fire department grew from "The Bucket Brigade" -a group of village residents who responded with buckets when summoned by church bells in the 1800's-to a township-supported fire department with its own fire barn in 1952.

Cuts in Government funding threatened the township support ofthe fire department in the early 2000's, prompting then supervisor Taylor Allen and fire chief Don McAlister to join John Beck in appealing to com­ munity leaders and residents for funding alternatives for emergency response services. SAESA Fire Flames Auxiliary. Standing: Peggy. In 2005, Beck and McAlister met with representatives Stowe, Jean Bliss, Kim Batdorf: Jennell Quinn, from the five area townships in three counties SAAi Tracy Warren, Terry Sommer, Tammy Salyer, Niki served to discuss options that would allow continued Stowe, Theresa Wiley, Pam Baker, Heather Farr, emergency responses in those communities. Kris Harrison. Kneeling: Deanna McAlister, Tia Harden, Nicole Patrick, Becky Salyer, Sarah After several meetin~ and discussions with local gov­ Caskey, Janice Armstrong. Not pictured: Donna ernment units, it was decided that a proposal to form a Owen, Carolen Severson, Kim Beck. millage-supported ambulance and fire service would be added to the August, 2006 township ballots. Stockbridge Ambulance Explorer Program

The proposal was passed and SAESA was born. A In October of 1993 Stockbridge ambulance began an board of directors was formed incorporating represen­ explorer program with eleven men and women who tatives of the townships SAESA serves-Gene Ulrey of were in high school. The explorer program offers peo­ Bunkerhill Township, Paul Risner of Stockbridge ple fourteen through twenty-one an opportunity to gain Township, Mike Sadler of Waterloo Township, Todd experience in the medical field area. The Stockbridge Baker of White Oak Township and Janice Armstrong. Explorer post offers hands-on experience in emergency medicine. Career interest with the group include EMT, SAESA currently serves portions of Ingham, Washte­ paramedic, nurse, physical therapist and medical doc­ naw, Li~n and Jackson counties and employs 20 tors. ambulance personnel and 25 fire personnel. Explorers have learned how to perform CPR, back boarding, holding c-spine, and care for shock, bleeding and broken bones. These skills are being put to use. Explorers are riding with ambulance crews during scheduled shifts and are giving assistance in caring for patients in need. The Explorers put on car crash simu­ lations called mock crashes. The Explorers partici­ pated in a mock crash at Manchester High School in 2002 with Chelsea's Explorers, fire explorers fonn Manchester and the Washtenaw County Sheriff's De­ partment. The Explorers used to go to camp Grayling every year for 4 or 5 days where they could learn about SAESA Fire Department. Back row: Lt. Jason Pat­ the military and the different jobs they have. Some of rick, Jeny Long, Josh McAlister, John Salyer, Jr, the explorers that have passed through our post have Jeremy Towler, Matt Severson, Matt Francis, Marty ended up becoming paramedics. Two paramedics at Bliss. Middle: Doug Sommer, Chief Don McAlister, Stockbridge ambulance were Explorers and others have Asst. Chief Russ Stowe, Capt. Dave Harrison, Rich­ become nurses, physician's assistants and doctors. The ard McDonald, Brent Stowe, Shawn Warren, John current explorers include Dean Kot, Kele Joki, Michael Salyer, Sr. Front: Matt Harden, Bryon Wiley, Mary Biehn, Ashley long, Jessie Snapp, Darby Howard and Ann Finley, Shane Batdorf!'. Not pictured: Jeff Kadie Smith. - Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries CHURCHES

Mount Olivet Church Frank Schultz's ministry had begun in Grand Rapids, ·...: Michigan. At the age of 40, he dedicated himself to starting Baptist churches throughout Michigan. After 40 years, Pastor Schultz wound up in Gregory, Michi­ gan where he started the Anathoth Baptist Church, later to become Lakeland Trails Baptist Church. There he met and converted Edwin Minix.

After a few years, Pastor Schultz, along with Mr. Minix, started a church in Stockbridge. The first meeting was held September 4, 1972. The church, Mount Olivet Church initially called Galilean Baptist Mission, became Je-: ruel Baptist Church. Pastor Schultz explained that he By Elbert Castle ''was tired of Baptist churches named Calvary, Trinity, Grace or even First." Jeruel is a Hebrew name taken The old Lowe school house at the comer of Oakley from II Corinthians 20:16 and means," Founded by Road and M-52 was purchased by the Little Polly God." Church of Old Regular Baptist from Duck Lake, Michigan in the year of 1955. A parsonage was built for Pastor Schultz on Shepper Road. The garage was finished and served as the first After a few years, Little Polly Church moved back to church. Marshall. Michigan. An arm (a new church) consist­ ing of members of the Little Polly Church was granted Eventually, land was purchased east ofMunith near permission to establish the present church which is the Ross Tank Plant. The necessary zoning could not Mount Olive Church of Old Regular Baptist, member be obtained and a land swap was arranged with Dean of Northern New Salem Association. and Marilyn Katz. This led to the building of the cur­ rent structure at the corner ofM-106 and Neu Road. Meetings are conducted the fourth weekend of each month.

Up to this time the congregation had consisted of Pas­ Jeruel Baptist Church tor Schultz and the Minix family. With the move to Munith, the church began to prosper, especially when By Pastor Robert Castle the Russell Rogers family and the Bill Withrow fam­ ily joined. Mr. and Mrs. Alva Clark came from Albion The beginning of the Jeruel Baptist Church starts with to help with music ministry and Mr. and Mrs. Ira Wat­ two men, a missionary named Frank Schultz and his son came from Williamston to help with visitation and faithful convert, Edwin Minix. worship services.

Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries Church construction had begun in 1973. The second ating the overcrowding situation. P. Scott Castle, Pas- story was added in 1975. The sanctuary was completed tor Castle's son, would become pastor at Pleasant in 1977. Lake.

In 1976, Pastor Bob Castle was called to become Pas­ In the fall of2009, the church decided it should do tor Schultz's assistant. Pastor Castle was from the area something to address the substance abuse problem in and had attended Maranatha Baptist Bible College in Munith. After attending a conference in Rockford, Wisconsin. Pastor Castle, his wife, Debbie, and their Illinois, Pastor Castle and Rick Ramalia approached infant son, Scott, settled in Fitchburg. the church about forming "Reformer's Unanimous." The first meeting was held on September 11, 2009. Steve and Caroline Wallenwine joined the church in Reformer's Unanimous has become an important min­ 1979 with a zeal for missionary work. The first mis­ istry of Jeruel Baptist Church. sionary taken on was Nancy Stanley, a missionary to France. Shortly thereafter, Jeruel would take on mis­ First Baptist Church of Stockbridge sionaries Dan and Janet Morrison in Indonesia.

Pastor Schultz's wife, Minnie, died and Pastor Schultz turned the parsonage over to the Church. The parson­ age was sold and part of the proceeds were used to start construction of the Church's gymnasium in 1986. Dedication took place in 1988.

Pastor Brian Withrow, son of Bill and Kathy Withrow, became assistant minister is 1989. After a year and a half: Pastor Withrow accepted a call to the Wetmore Baptist Church of Wetmore, Colorado. The new as­ sistant was Pastor Craig Raymond who had grown up Sanctuary at First Baptist Church in the Loomis Parle Baptist Church in Jackson. Pastor Raymond was ordained in 1991. Pastor Jack Laforge By Pastor Brian Johnson was ordained in 1992. Pastor Raymond became As­ sistant Pastor for Youth in 1993. Jerry and Leslie In 1987 Rev. Lloyd Jewitt served as pastor. He was Gould began to attend and worked with Pastor Ray­ instrumental in creating nursery space in the base­ mond in ministry to the youth. Pastor Raymond re­ ment. Also, Rev. Jewitt began introducing the congre­ signed in 1998. gation to some more contemporary music. First Bap­ tist Church experienced growth during his pastorate. The church started a Bible Institute to train Jerry Gould 1988-1989 was marked by a period of struggle. At­ along with three others, Bruce Rogers, Fred Lafountain tendance was down to 25-30 people on a Sunday and Chris Kelch. Pastor Gould became Assistant Pas- morning. The congregation was predominately older. tor for the Youth. In 1989 Rev. Jay Thiebaut came to serve us as pastor. Pastor Jack Laforge and Pastor Castle became bur­ Under his leadership we experienced significant dened with the fact that it was time for Jeruel Baptist growth. We set a goal to grow as a congregation with Church to reproduce itself. This resulted in a mission the church wide compaign slogan of"96 by 96." We established at Eden, Michigan which would become met and exceeded that goal. Suddenly we had a prob­ Cross Roads Baptist Church. lem. We were out of room to grow.

Jeruel continued to grow and continued to be faced By the end of 1996, we had purchased the old GTE with overcrowding. Pastor Clinner Mitchell of the building at 950 S. Clinton Street Services began Pleasant Lake Bible Church approached Pastor Castle there in December of 1996. Within a few months the about Jeruel taking over Pleasant Lake Bible Church. church's parsonage and old building were sold and the In 1998, Jeruel received the property of the Pleasant mortgage for the new building subsequently burned. Lake Bible Church, changed the name to Pleasant Lake Baptist Church and operated it as a mission of Jeruel Growth continued to mark this season of ministry as Baptist Church. Fifteen members left Jeruel to become we became known for our Vacation Bible School pro­ core members of the Pleasant Lake church, thus allevi gram that reached many children every year. During

Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries this time of growth additional staff was added to help The area was organized into a circuit in 1856 at Gass­ oversee the expanding ministry of our church. In 200 l burg and steps taken to build a parsonage there. Gass­ we purchased the house adjacent to the church building burg was located at Fitchburg and North Territorial for the purpose of future expansion. This house was Roads. In 1872, the First Methodist Episcopal Church used for our youth group for a few years. of Henrietta was built at Gassburg. Dedication took place on September I, 1872. The land was donated by In the fall of2003 we welcomed the Rev. Tucker Gun­ Richard Pixley. Trustees at the time were Jacob Call, nerman to serve as our interim minister. He helped T. H. Garris, S. N. Lee, Elias Brown and Addison guide us through the time of transition we found our­ Suylandt selves in. In the fall of2004 we called the Rev. Brian Johnson to serve as our pastor. In the early 1880's the railroad came through and a new community was established at Munith. The quar­ We worked on updating our facility and transformed terly conference held in 1886 consented to move the some classroom space into a children's ministry called First Methodist Church of Henrietta to Munith. The "Discovery Island." The mortgage on the house adja­ church building was moved by horses and logs to Mu­ cent to the church was burned in 2009. nith and rededicated on November 28, 1887 by Rev. N. Norton Clark. The new site, located at Main and Seventh Streets, was donated by Hiram and Alice Sut­ ton. In 1889, the parsonage at Gassburg was sold and r a new parsonage purchased in Munith. A new par­ sonage was built to the west of the church in 1923.

Playground at First Baptist Church, Stockbridge

As the church continued to grow we were running out of space. In the beginning of2010 we began and com­ pleted extensive renovations to our facility. We com­ pletely remodeled the sanctuary and created a cafe for the community to use. Upon retiring the debt for our renovations it is our goal to build a gymnasium that can Mnnith United Methodist Church meet the needs of the community. Our missionary fo­ cus has been on reaching young families through crea­ In the late 1930's, the Methodist Episcopal Church tive means. Our Vacation Bible School program has was joined by the Methodist Episcopal Church North continued to grow and we have added a Buck Pole con­ and the Methodist Protestant Church. With the union test, Single Mom's event and a School's Out party, all with the United Brethren Church, in 1968, the church designed to serve our community. became known as the United Methodist Church. Munitb United Methodist Church For some time, the Munith church was part of a three By Alma Back point charge that included Munith, Pleasant Lake and Fitchburg. The Fitchburg church closed in 1967 and On December 3, 1853 a quarterly conference was or­ merged with the Stockbridge church. Mt. Hope re­ ganized called the Henrietta Mission. William Jones placed Fitchburg on the circuit. Mt. Hope eventually was the local preacher. He preached at Dewey, merged with Munith. The cIDTent arrangement has the Fitchburg, Kennedy, Mccreery, Hall, Coon Hill, Munith and Stockbridge churches as a two church Moss, Pleasant Lake, Waterloo and South Henrietta. circuit. The current minister is Rev.Larry Rubingh. All of these except Fitchburg were school houses.

Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries Stockbridge United Methodist Church Hospice Care group in Jackson, Michigan.

·- The church has a women's missionary group, the United Methodist Women or UMW.

Over the years there were several circles formed in­ cluding the "Rebecca" circle and the "Sunshine" cir­ cle. The "Seekers Circle" was started in 1973 as an evening circle for those who worked and others who couldn't attend the day circles. The "Seekers" are the only circle active at the present time.

Their meetings are held in the church fellowship hall on the third Monday of each month. At the meeting there is fellowship, refreshments and a program lesson to help us understand missions. Stockbridge United Methodist Church The "Seekers" have several fundraisers each year. By Janice Satow and Thelma Brooks They make fudge and snacks in March to sell at the "Cabin Fever Show" at the Jackson County Fair­ The last twenty-five years have brought many positive grounds. There is a bake sale at the "Day in the Vil­ changes to our church and community. The Stock­ lage" celebration in June and a "Holiday Garage Sale" bridge United Methodist Church was founded in 1852 and a Bake Sale in the fall. by a group ofMethodists from the eastern United States. It was officially called The First Methodist So­ The UMW hosts a Mother-Daughter banquet in May ciety. and also a ladies potluck and games day in the spring.

Many caring ministers have served our church well The proceeds of our sales are given to missions such through the years. Since 1979 when David Selleck as UMCOR, Stockbridge Outreach, Grand Rapids began his ministry with us, we have had pastors Burt Community House, Youth Haven and others. Beers, Stuart Proctor, Richard Matson and Robert Hen­ ning. Our current pastor is Larry Rubingh. He is mar­ The UMW also prepare and serve funeral luncheons ried to his wife, Linda and they have two children, or meal when there has been a death in the family. Travis and Sydney. We pray that God will continue to bless us and keep The Methodist church has been instrumental in orga­ us in His care. nizing helpful services in our community. Among these are the "Meals on Wheels" program and The First Presb erian Church of Stockbrid e "Stockbridge Outreach" program located behind the : ::.-=::.:;:: ·""':'"i'.";. ,..,:.: •.. ,,: ""';_~ ...... :.., ~ Stockbridge Middle School...... --.:.. _ ... _ 7!,:_, ~ ; :;:: _ •,.

We have a rich heritage of music as noted in our church history book. We currently have three choirs, the Sen­ ior Choir, the Praise Team and the Children's Choir.

Our church has recently had a face lift inside and out, fresh paint, new furnace, new air conditioner and stee­ ple repair.

The ladies of our church are involved in many other worthwhile projects. Among these are the "Crazy First Presbyterian Church then Quilters." Every Tuesday morning, a group of ladies By Grace Collins meet to make quilts, pillows, bibs and walker bags. The product of their love is donated to the Great Lakes In 1838 services were held in a small log school on

Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries Wood Street between Spring and Rice Streets. All de­ Stockbridge Congregation of the Church of Christ nominations used this facility. In 1853 a new Presbyte­ rian society was organized as a branch of the Unadilla Church. By 1855 a new brick church was dedicated on the corner of Center and Elm Streets. The Methodists, Episcopalians and also the Baptists used the building. By 1895 the church was dissolved by the Presbytery and the church building was raised. In 1901, led by Jennie Dancer and her mother, Deborah Hoag and with the help of the old members and new people moving into the community, the society was reorganized. They met in the Episcopalian Church where the library now stands A new church building was completed in 1906 on the site of the old Branch Store on the comer of Stockbridge Church of Christ Center and Main Streets at a cost of$5,000.00. By Pastor Larrel Whitaker With the growth of the church members and families, more room was needed and in 1964 a new Christian The history of the Church of Christ in Stockbridge Education building was dedicated. By 1986 the church goes back to the late 1950's or early 1960's. Around celebrated the 80th anniversary of the church building that time, John Lee Gillespie was preaching in the and the 85th anniversary of the reorganized church Stockbridge area and a small congregation began society. In 1988 the beautiful stained glass art win­ meeting in an upstairs room in Chelsea at the comer dows were repaired and registered with the Michigan ofM-52 and North Main. From there the congrega­ Stained Glass Census. tion moved to the Stockbridge Town Hall and held services in the basement; the duration of which is not In 1987 a hand bell choir was established and 3 octaves exactly known hut was in the time frame of one to two were purchased. Each bell was purchased in memory years. or in honor ~f some loved one. In 1989-99 a new ele­ vator and housing for it , a new heating systenn and an As the congregation grew, plans were made to con­ air conditioner were installed. A ground level entrance struct a permanent meeting place on the outskirts of on the southwest comer of the church made both floors Stockbridge. Eventually a one acre parcel ofland was available to parishioners, chosen on Hinkley Road. The one acre building site was purchased from Harlan and Lulabelle Hughes and The l OOth anniversary of the reorganization of the soci­ construction began in about 1961. A good amount of ety was celebrated in 2001, and in 2006 the 1OOth anni­ volunteer work went into construction of an approxi­ versary of the church building was celebrated. That mately 1000 square foot building. Special recognition year the cornerstone was removed from the church is due to the members of the Church of Christ in Mar­ building and the contents were removed, viewed and shall, Michigan who gave much needed support to the catalogued. A new capsule, holding many historical effort in Stockbridge. Originally, the building pro­ items, was buried and is to be opened in 2056. vided only a meeting room but later two class rooms, bathroom facilities and a baptistery were added. Until Everyone is welcome to worship with us. the addition of the baptistery, baptisms were held at local streams and ponds. There was something very special about gathering at the waters' edge and wit­ nessing a baptism. It is very easy to understand why this event is known as "being born again."

The Hinckley Road building was eventually sold in 1989 and is now a private residence. While meeting there, the congregation grew-at times to I 00 plus members-but for the most part averaged from 60-80 on a weekly basis. In the summer of 1989, construc­ tion began on the current church building located on M-52 just south of the McDonalds restaurant. The The Presbyterian Church now building is located on six acres, three of which were

Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries purchased from Jimmy and Betty Suiter. The other The first need was for shelter and soon cabins went up three acres to the south of the building were purchased and the village grew apace. But, in order to create the from Gary Allen in the 1990's. During the construc­ life left behind in the East, there were other needs to tion of the new facility, the congregation-once again­ fill. held services in the basement of the town hall. Soon after they arrived and were settled in their cabin, A number of ministers have attended to the congrega­ Levi and Christine Clawson were joined by Mr. and tions' needs over the years following the passing of Mrs. Samuel Wasson, William Caskey and John Van John Gillespie. Some of the men who ministered in­ Dom to form a Presbyterian Society. They eventually clude Cledys Whitaker, Jim Cockerham, John Natu, built a church house on the west side of the highway. Ben Sherfield and Bruce Harris. Larrel Whitaker is the The society was disbanded in 1929; the building fell current minister of the congregation. Ifanyone has into disrepair and was tom down. additional information or pictures relative to the Church's history, please contact Larrel Whitaker at In 1852 the entire township had been taken up and in 1_ [email protected]. that year the President of the Methodist Conference met with Gilbert and Cloe Daniels, Margaret Daniels, Plainfield United Methodist Church Benjamin and Louise Dutcher, William and Eliz.abeth Asquith and William and Sarah Barrett at the Fulmer schoolhouse on Dexter Trail to organize a Methodist Protestant Class. They were transferred to the school house in Plainfield by order of the conference.

The church was more fonnally organized in June of 1863 when the following trustees were elected: Morris Topping, Jonathan Foster, G. J. Daniels, S. P. Reynolds and William Donn. M. S. Angel and William Dunn were Inspectors of Elections; Morris Topping, Justice of the Peace. The proceedings were recorded July 4, - 1863 at the court house in Howell. (Note: on that date Generals Lee and Mead were moving south from the three-day battle at Gettysburg, leaving behind many Plainfield United Methoist Church wound and dead to be cared for by the people of that little village.) By Jane King Bollinger

The land in Unadilla Township is not as the first set­ tlers found it. Here were broad plains, oak openings that did not have to be cleared for early planting, and enough trees to furnish logs for cabins. Along the north edge of Gregory several old oaks still stand, pro­ tected testimony to the wealth they found.

William Dunn and Levi Clawson left Newport, New Jersey in 1835; Clawson stopped over in Ohio and Dunn continued on to Michigan Territory. Clawson came on to Michigan in 1836 and would become an important link in the history of the Plainfield United Methodist Church. In the meantime, Phillip Dyer pur­ chased land originally taken up by Fleet Van Syckle Church Choir, I 891. Back, left to right: John and became the second settler. Dyer and Dunn both Taylor, James Jackson, Sylvester G. Topping, Otis operated taverns, stopovers for people seeking land. Dutton and Ashel Dutton. Front, left to right: Vi­ The place was then called Dyersburg but in 1837, when ola Wood Wasson, Jane Longnecker Dutton, Lottie it became a post village, Mr. Dunn changed the name Braley, Minnie Glenn Dutton and Jessie Braley to Plainfield after a town in New Jersey. Topping.

Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries The Methodist Protestant Church was built on land from the Church facility. purchased from Levi Clawson and dedicated Septem­ ber 23, 1868. It was a small simple church completely As the Stockbridge Church of God faithfully minis­ adequate to their needs. In the spring of 1906 it was tered to the community, they prospered and rapid struck by lightning and burned to the ground. growth necessitated building a larger facility after the turn of the new millennium. In a step of vision and The present church was built in the fall of 1906 and faith this band of believers, under the leadership of dedicated January 27, 1907. The beautiful stained Rev. Wesley Duncan, set out to build a large structure glass windows bear the names of some of the members at 5107 S. Clinton Road. In 2003 it was completed who were instrumental in organizing and maintaining and we moved into our current facility and began op­ the church in its early years. Many of them rest in the erations under the name "Highest Praise Worship burial ground across the way. Center."

A rededication and celebration of the 100 year old This year Highest Praise Worship Center celebrates 60 building was held January 28, 2007 and the congrega­ years of ministering in this community. Throughout tion is in its l03rd year. the years many pastors have served diligently to lead this Church forward. Our current pastor, Bishop Jef­ Stockbridge Church of God frey S. Lambert, accepted the invitation to lead this church in 2005 and since then has place a high priority on becoming a mission focused Church. With a vi­ sion of"Toucbing Hearts, Building Lives, and Trans­ forming a World" we continually extend a loving hand to the community. The Church has become known for its ONE80 OUREACH efforts such as the "Backpack Giveaway" in the fall and the "Stocking Giveaway" at Christmas, which gives a helping hand to families. The Church's ONE80 OUREACH reaches near and far with efforts such as World Mis­ sions to third world countries, to local efforts such as offering professional counseling to community fami­ lies in need at little or no charge to even hosting regu­ lar community events such as the Country Cruise Highest Praise Worship Center Classic Car Show and the Family Funday Sunday which provides family enriching opportunities. By Bishop Jeffrey S. Lambert HPWC has truly become a friendly family-focused church in the community. As a progressive and rele­ The Stockbridge Church of God was first organized on vant church, great care is given to provide quality January 1, 1950 under the name "Glad Tidings Assem­ ministry for every age. bly." Under the leadership of Clyde Williams and about 35 charter members they began to worship in a Continual expansion through the vision, faith and sac­ small church on the comer of Elizabeth Street and Wil­ rifice of our members has made the Highest Praise liams Street. Shortly thereafter it was accepted into the Worship Center what it is today. Our faith is not ex­ Church of God Denomination out of Cleveland. Ten­ hausted. our vision is not dimmed and we are there­ nessee. This decision set the course as a Pentecostal fore looking to find what God has in store for us to­ Fellowship and the church name subsequently was morrow. We know from those who have paved the changed to the "Stockbridge Church of God." This way for us that it will take work, but also faithfulness small band of faithful Christians was committed and and seeking for God's presence in our daily lives and labored diligently. worship. The Stockbridge Church of God has had a heartbeat for SS. Cornelius and Cyprian Catholic Church the connnunity. The Church was instrumental in the establishment of a food and clothing bank in the com­ From the book "Living in Joyful Hope, A History of munity. For a period of time, the Church basement was the Diocese of Lansing'' by Msgr. George C. used to facilitate this great need. Also U.S. Govern­ Michalek. Reprinted with permission of Msgr. ment Commodities were distributed to the local area Michalek.

Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries The first Catholics in the Bunker Hill area were the During the pastorate (1923-1942) of Rev. John M. James Markey family who arrived in 1839. Their long­ Duffy, Bunker Hill became famous for its picnics. The ing for the Eucharist led to Rev. Patrick Kelly coming first one was held in 1869 but probably the largest was from Livingston County in February 1845 to celebrate in 1937 when l,500 attended the dinner. Since 1938 mass in their home. In 1849 Patrick Markey donated Bunker Hill bas also hosted the San Ippolito Festival land for a Catholic cemetery. When Rev. Cornelius sponsored by the Italian American Catholic community Moutard took up his pastorate at St John the Evangel­ of Lansing.. ist in Jackson in 1857, he was also given the care of the Bunker Hill Catholics. In 1863 a wood frame church From 1986 until 2003 Rev. Eugene J. Beiter led the was erected in the cemetery. A petition was soon sent Bunker Hill community. Rev. Michael A. Petroski to Bishop Peter Paul Lefevere of Detroit for a resident followed. priest In November 1868 he sent Rev. Theodore Hilary Driessen.

SS. Cornelius and Cyprian in 1863

Bunker Hill lost its parochial status in 1873 and re­ mained a mission for the next 32 years. The mission was under the care of the pastors of St. Mary Pinckney, St John Jackson or St Mary Williamston for most of that period. During the pastorate ( 1898-1905) of Rev. John J. Connolly at Williamston, the Bunker Hill com­ munity experienced expansion. A new brick veneer church was built opposite the cemetery and dedicated December 1, 1899. In early 1905, plans were set to build a rectory, convent and school. Fr. Connolly se­ cured the services of the Sisters of St Joseph from SS. Cornelius and Cyprian today Nazareth to staff the school, which opened in the con­ verted old church. SS. Cornelius and Cyprian Catholic Church is located on Catholic Church Road just east of Williamston Upon Fr. Connolly's transfer in July 1905, Bunker Hill Road. was given its first resident pastor in over 30 years. Rev. James O'Brien's pastorate (1905-1919) combined Trinity Pentecostal Church the best of times and the worst of times. The 1899 By Rev. Mark Roark church burned in 1906. The 1906 rectory was de­ stroyed by fire in 1910. A new church (1907), a new As a group of about 15 Christians who were not satis­ rectory (1910) and a new school (1912) were built fied with the non-democratic style of government The school closed in 1964. within the church, Reverend Charles Roark along with his wife Mary and others began to conduct services The Catholic faith was greatly treasured by the commu­ independently. The rudimentary service met October nity of Bunker Hill. Thirteen of the parish's daughters 8, 1966 in a rented building, the Rebekah Lodge in and six of her sons entered religious life or the priest­ Chelsea, Michigan. hood

Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries r

While conducting these services the congregation felt In 1974 the new sanctuary was completed. In 1975 the great need for an established and permanent place attendance reached an all time high of 160. Men, of worship in order to be united as a church. While women and children were growing together in the faith, buildings and places of worship are not the main fo­ hope and love of God. ln October of the same year, I 0 cus, the convenience of families is important So we acres across the road became available. The congrega­ prayed for a place central to all and, more importantly, tion thought this would be a great opportunity for any God. He would bring it to them. future expansion for the Church as the current lot was l acre.

· - _... ii;_ The Church growth took on the reflection of the top number of attendance. This number is significant be­ cause this was beyond the goal of 150 that the people had set as well as the vision that Pastor Charles E. Roark had for the church. This vision was to fill the Church for the glory of God!

The heart for young people had always had a signifi­ cant role at Trinity Pentecostal Church. From the be­ ginning in the old sanctuary with Pastor "Ed" Roark working with children, teens and young parents, it was evident that the caring touch of Christ was first. Pastor Roark worked with the idea that "Any time you care about the people something good happens." As already stated, much help was given to provide these services. With the support of those who came, the loving care message only grew. The love of God gave a very pro­ ductive youth ministry which saw many young people giving their hearts to Christ To this very day many of these young people (now grown up) come back to Trin­ ity Pentecostal Church to visit and tell of the life­ changing message (the Gospel of Jesus Christ) that they received from this ministry. The wife of Pastor Roark, Mary Roark, has a large role in the music minis­ The church we bought in 1967. try. Now their son, Rev. Mark Roark, who took over as Pastor in 2007, helps keep the light of God's kingdom We had heard of a church building available (see burning through the Ministries' work. above) and submitted a bid to purchase. It was offi­ cially sold to us in 1967 after the United Methodist Trinity Pentecostal Church is locatedjustnorth of Church consolidated in the town of Stockbridge. The downtown Fitchburg on Freiermuth Road. Church started growing and had attendance of 50 with an education wing built and finished in 1969. Over the St. Jacob Evangelical Lutheran Church next 3 years families from all around attended and were By Joan Hoffinan inspired to work in the Church. The St. Jacob Congregation was founded in 1841. The first services were held in a log cabin in the ham­ let of Trist, sometimes called Calftown. Later a church building was erected at the comer ofTrist and Moeckel Roads. Guiding the spiritual needs of these German immigrants was founding pastor Rev. Frie­ drich Schmid. Pastor Schmid organized over 20 Lu­ theran congregations in Michigan. Because roads were often passable only on foot and he initially didn't have a horse, it is amazing that he was able to serve Trinity Pentecostal Church today St Jacob about every three weeks.

Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries When the congregation outgrew the church at Trist and in English, although he felt more comfortable with the Moeckel Roads, a sanctuary was built in 1853 on German language, and the American flag was added to Riethmil1er Road on property donated by Jacob Harr. the sanctuary. Soon a small parsonage was built and the congregation called its first. resident pastor. The sanctuary has since At the recent funeral for an 88 year old member, we undergone remodeling. Additions have been made to were reminded of how rigorous youth instruction con­ the front and back of the church. tinued to be. The confirmation oral exam for her 10- member class was three hours long before the congre­ gation. Answers to questions were expected to include memorized scriptural verses.

Pastor Scott Schwertfeger is the current pastor of St. Jacob. He is the 19th pastor in our 169-year history. St. Jacob belongs to the Wisconsin Evangelical Lu­ theran Synod. There are various groups including Pio­ neers for young people, a confirmation class, WinGS (Women in God's Service) and fellowship activities for all ages. There are monthly church council meetings and quarterly congregational meetings for the conduct­ ing of church business.

Our Mission Statement

As a family of believers united by the truth of God's Word, it is the mission of St. Jacob Congregation to reach out to all people with the Word of God to bring the lost to Christ; in our community by encourgaging and supporting our members through worship, educa­ tion and fellowship and by bringing others to know their Savior, in the world by supporting mission work at home and abroad through our Synod. St. Jacob Evangelical Lutheran Church Out oflove for God and people, based on God's love The Gennan immigrants came primarily to farm. Some for us, we men, women and children of St. Jacob, of the land surrounding the Church was either marsh or young and old, dedicate ourselves to this mission, using poor sandy soil for farming. Much of it eventually our time, talents and treasures to God's glory. became part of the Waterloo Recreation Area leaving St. Jacob in a peaceful rural setting surrounded by state Bunker Hill Seventh Day Adventist Church land.

The adjoining cemetery tells much about the German families who were St. Jacob members. This is the rest­ ing place of the Realy family whose home became the Waterloo Farm Museum. Jacob Realy, along with six others, served in the Civil War. Families were large and many families saw several children die at a young age.

Youth of confirmation age left public school for a cou­ Bunker Hill Seventh Day Adventist Church ple of years to receive religious instruction as well as learning basic school subjects at the one-room St. Jacob By Pat Lykins schoolhouse. During WW L the pastor and some church officials were questioned about their loyalty to In late 1863, some of the people around Bunker Hill the United States. Changes came. Classes at the Center heard of Seventh-day Sabbath keepers in New school house ended, Pastor Stevens held some services York State. After receiving unsatisfactory answers to

Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries explain the Sabbath to them. ln response, Elder Joseph organization with 28 fundamental beliefs, including Bates came by train to the area and held meetings in the the seventh-day Sabbath, literal second coming, bap­ school house. A company of Sabbath keepers was tism by immersion and the Trinity. formed and met in the homes of the believers. In April, 1864, the Bunker Hill SDA Church was organized by Bunker Hill was among the first few churches in the Elders John Byington and lsaac D. Van Hom with 18 denomination to celebrate their 1OOth anniversary in baptized members. 1964 with a membership of70. For many years, the world headquarters of the Seventh-day Adventist de­ In short time, other individuals joined Elder Bates, in­ nomination was in Battle Creek but was later moved cluding denominational leaders Elder and Mrs. James to Washington, D.C. where it still is today. White and the Kellogg family. They moved on to Bat­ tle Creek where Dr. J. H. Kellogg established the world The Bunker Hill Seventh Day Adventist Chuich is famous Battle Creek Sanitarium and began the break­ located on Williamston Road south of DeCamp Road fast food company for which the city is still known. In in Bunker Hill. Battle Creek today, there is a denominational history section of the town of several blocks that features a Unadilla Presbyterian Church display of many of the items that were used in the sani­ tarium, homes and churches of that era. Regular Satur­ day afternoon tours are conducted during the summer.

In 1896, the Bunker Hill church was built with the help of many neighborhood men at the current location for $750. On January 7, 1967, that church burned to the ground leaving only the basement wall standing. In less than a week, the church in business session voted to rebuild on the same site. The only salvageable por­ tion of the old church was the stone foundation. Those stones were carefully removed and re-cut to form the ' background to the platform area of the new church. Unadilla Presbyterian Church During the time the church was being reconstructed, the members of the Felt Plains Methodist Church gen­ erously granted use of their church for services. Two By Jim Rogers years later, on January 8, 1969, the first service was held in the new church which is currently in use. It was Activity in Unadilla Township began with hunting and totally refurbished in the early 2000's which included a a man by the name of John Drake who was looking fully modem new kitchen. Today the membership is at for a "fall of water'' to build a dam and start a saw 34. mail. Once you have a saw mill, you have a town.

Currently, the church shares its pastor with the Jackson The people settling in the town were Scottish and congregation, Pastor Gene Hall. The local elders are English who knew the importance of their religion and Don DeCamp, William Lykins, Lindell Jensen and educating their children. In 1837,just days after Mark Schertzing. Worship services are held on Satur­ Michigan became our 26th state, the Unadilla Church day, 9:30 a.m. We have a fellowship meal on the sec­ was organiz.ed with the help ofC. G. Clark of Web­ ond and fourth Sabbaths following services. Mid-week ster Township (Dexter) and eleven charter members: services are held in homes. Men's Ministries meets monthly for breakfast and Women's Ministries take an Wm. & Christine Craig-Scottish Presbyteri- annual trip to the state youth camp, Camp Au Sable, ans near Grayling for a weekend. During the warmer Luke, Eunice & Alexander Montague months, we have a Sabbath evening Vesper service Wm. & Agnes Pyper-Scottish Presbyterians with sharing of readings and music that begins about an JohnBrewyn hour before sundown. Dr. Janius & Maria Field-first physician in the area The Seventh-day Adventist denomination was formally John Drake established in 1863 and much of the initial work was started in Michigan. It is a Bible-based fundamental They purchased the land from John Drake and Daniel

Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries Denton and a brick church was built in 1846. In 1914, Vincent de Paul. When he returned the next day, the a "cyclone" leveled the church. A Mr. L. McCleer sale had disappeared and the personnel did not remem­ built a new church in 60 days for $1,000! He used the ber him. belfiy and the round port window that were salvaged from the wreckage. The stained glass windows were found at a salvage business. Glass from broken windows was skillfully The Church was known for its Apple Butter Festivals used to repair broken sections of the windows that now in the late 1960's and early 1970's. Antique Car adorn the front of the Mission. Shows were held in the early l990's. A Michigan His­ torical Marker was dedicated in 2005. Currently, When asked about financing the Mission, Parson Allen spring of2010, the Church is holding a Music Extrava­ says the Mission is financed on faith. That faith seems ganza Series to help pay for a new root: to make things happen. Parson Allen tells of the dona­ tion of a piano and worrying about finding a piano We encourage all in need to join in prayer, praise and player. Yet, the mission seems to have someone every learning from our Lord's Word to glorify Him by doing Sunday. what He says. Fueled by Parson Allen's faith and determination, the Good Shepherd Mission Good Shepherd Mission has grown. The sanctuary is open to migrant workers to celebrate mass in Spanish. The Sunday services are Pentecostal in nature and open to all denominations, nationalities and ethnicities.

Good Shepherd Mission is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. It serves as a temporary haven for those down on their luck, housing several gentlemen at any given times.

The Mission is home to Dora's Cupboard. Named after Pastor Allen's mother, who raised 14 children, the Cupboard remembers Dora's giving nature by making food available on Tuesday and Thursday afternoons The Sanctuary at Good Shepherd Mission from 2 to 4. As many as 15 to 20 people take advan­ tage of the Cupboard and each person is allowed to By Richard Ramsdell take 30 pounds of groceries every two months. Thanks to Parson Allen, the church and donations from the Good Shepherd Mission, located on M-36 west of Bro­ community, Dora's Cupboard is able to provide the gan Road, had its roots in the mind of Parson Billy Al­ food without charge. len. Parson Allen was first led to the site by a sign along side the road that identifies volunteer groups that pick up litter. It took 6 years for Parson Allen to con­ vince the owner of the property to sell. Parson Allen's dream finally came true in 1997.

The land had a history of its own for on the property was the old Reeves schoolhouse. During the early days of reconstruction, a groundhog led Parson Allen under­ neath the school house where Parson Allen fmmd a corked bottle serving as a time capsule for the new Reeves School which was built in 1871. The Reeves School became the Sanctuary for the Good Shepherd Dora's Cupboard Mission. Ruth's Closet is another opportunity to help others. Pastor Allen bad other signs that indicated to him his Open at the same time as Dora's Cupboard, it has all Mission was meant to be. The pine pews were do­ types of clothing sorted and bung for those who need nated. Furniture was purchased at half price from St free clothing.

Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries Yet another mission is bread from Pepperidge Farms. A century ago, I l God-fearing pioneer citizens from Bread is often the one item most food pantries are surrounding communities in Waterloo township gath­ missing. Good Shepherd Mission keeps a couple of ered at the Long Island school house in Grass Lake racks filled with a variety of loaves available to atl 24 township to organize the Jackson Mission of the United hours a day, 7 days a week. Brethren in Christ Church.

Parson Allen is an ordained minister through the An­ According to church records, pioneer members of the chor Bay Evangelistic Association, an association with Waterloo First Church included the Allen E. Caldwells, 60,000 churches throughout the United States. He de­ the William Gamers, the Welcome Weeks and the scribes the Mission as interdenominational but teaching Daniel Parks and son John. the full gospel and Pentecostal. In 1859 the membership had zoomed until tw<> classes Southwest Church of the Nazarine were formed. The west, now known as First Church held services in the Dewey School and Second Church held forth in Waterloo village.

In I870, the west church built a church just east of the current site and on land donated by the McCoy famiJy. The brick church was built for $2,000 and soon was debt-free. It was destroyed by fire in 1895.

Under the leadership and fired by the spirit of the Rev. J. A. Blickenstaff: who doffed his cleric rainment and donned a bricklayer's apron, the building was soon built. It took less than a year and was dedicated on June 2I, 1896 on land donated by E. A. Hall. The church building was debt free. Individuals who gener­ ously donated both labor and cash were E. A. Parks, Southwest Church of the Nazerine William Weeks, S. A. Howlett, E. A. Hall and Edwin By Richard Ramsdell Parks.

Southwest Church of the Nazarine is located at 14555 Holmes Road southwest of Gregory, Michigan.

The Church offers worship services Sunday morning at I I and Wednesday evening at 7. In addition, the Church has Men's Bible Study on Monday evenings, Ladies' Bible Study on Thursday evenings and LIFE groups that meet on Thursday evenings.

Southwest Church of the Nazarine offers several pro­ grams for children including J .A.M. Worship, Caravan/ Benson's Buddies, Bible Quizing, Jr. Nets, Vacation Bible School and Nursery. First Waterloo United Methodist Church For teens, Southwest Church of the Nazarine offers Nets, Summer Camps and Concert Opportunities. In the early days, the pastor was assigned to 6 churches and visited each every other week. He Rev. Gary A. Shlusher is the Pastor. Rev. Jody Talbot would preach at three churches each Sunday, one in serves as Pastor to Youth and Families. The church the morning, one in the afternoon and one in the eve­ can be contacted at [email protected]. ning. First Waterloo United Methodist Church Electricity came to the area in 1938. Not having the By Richard Ramsdell funds to wire the building, the church held a talent

Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries -

show. A variety of other improvements followed in- is committed to growth as disciples, as wel1 as reach- cluding a new well, new roof, new ceiling, lowering of ing our families and communities for Jesus. the floor in the basement and indoor plumbing. We are a Bible believing as weH as a Bible teaching On April 23, 1968, the Evangelical United Brethren church. In our worship we exalt the Lord Jesus with Church and the Methodist Church united as the United the modem worship songs of today as well as the tra­ Methodist Church at a meeting in Dallas, Texas. ditional songs of our faith. In our worship services people are encouraged to be themselves and worship First Waterloo Methodist Church is located at the cor­ God through faith in Jesus Christ as the Holy Spirit ner of Parks Road and North Territorial Road. It is part moves upon them. - of a two-church charge with the Waterloo Village United Methodist Church. The minister is the Rev. There are many plans for the future and all of them Georgie Dack. include God saving people through the blood of Jesus Christ, and God healing people through the faith of - Family Tabernacle Church of God Jesus Christ.

=~ - ... ~-'¥. Our Vision says never stop reaching out to people for ,_ -... ,;;. Jesus Christ. He never stopped reaching out for us. We are the extension of His love. We see a church full of people uplifting one another. Praying for one another. Helping one another seek God. And com­ forting one another with the comfort that God has comforted us with.

We see a church committed to our young people help­ ing them to be comforted and seek the Lord, with all here helping them to be all that God has called them to be for the Body of Christ fulfilling the call that God has upon their Jives. Sanctuary at the Family Tabernacle Church of God The Family Tabernacle Church of God is located on From the Family Tabernacle Church of God website. M-36 east of Gregory. The Senior Pastor is Jeff How­ ard. The Associate Pastor is Doug Prater. Youth min­ The Family Tabernacle Church of God got its start in isters are Tony and Peggy Prater. the basement of Pastor Jeff Howard's house. Under the Gregory Community Church conviction of God, Pastor Howard was led to start this part of the Body of Christ. - Pastor Howard received his training from the Church of God's Office of Ministerial Training starting as a Lay Leader, receiving a Lay Minister Certificate from the Office of Ministerial Development and since has gradu­ ated from the Church of God's M.A.P. program and the M.I.P Program and is now an Ordained Bishop in the Church of God of Cleveland Tennessee.

Says Pastor Howard, "The Lord moved in a mighty way establishing the Family Tabernacle Church of God. We have seen many miracles of God here. Every - one here has been touched by God in some way." We are excited about our future. Our purpose statement is: Gregory Community Church Reaching people everywhere with the full Gospel of - Jesus Christ in word and deed. Based on a history of the Gregory Baptist Church written by Thomas Howlett in 1987 Every ministry at the church exalts the Lord Jesus and

Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries The Gregory Baptist Church was founded in 1837 in Millville United Methodist Church Williamsville. According to tradition, the first meeting was held in a coopers' shop about one half mile west of the Williamsville Cemetery. The exact location was probably on M-106 a few hundred feet west of the stream which passes under the road and flows south into Williamsville Lake. There were thirteen charter members at this meeting. Who they were isn't certain; records prior to 1870 are sketchy or non-existent. But they probably included David or Deacon Holmes, one of the very first settlers in the area in 1833, Mr. and Mrs. Elnathan Skidmore, Uriah Sweet and Mr. and Mrs. David D. Bird. Records indicate that David Bird married Agnes Pyper in 1839 and it is believed that Miss Pyper was a charter member. Also, Mrs Philan­ der (Martha) Gregory was probably there along with Rev. James Pyper, D. D. Rev. Pyper arrived in 1837 Millville United Methodist Church and began preaching at Williamsville and at Dexter. From a history of the Millville United Methodist No church structure was erected until 1852. This struc­ Church written by Carole Oesterle in 1998 and up­ ture was located on Holmes Road about 200 hundred dated by Ms. Oesterle in 2008. yards east of Williamsville Road. In 1853, the Method­ ists would build a church on Williamsville Road just In or about 1840, George B. Wercester and J. T. Pratt south of the cemetery. came to White Oak and formed the first class in the old log school house. The class was called Sylvan Unfortunately no pictures have been found of this Circuit and later was known as Ingham Circuit. church. The church reportedly had two rows of pews and a balcony over the entrance. In 1857, the Ingham Circuit was divided into two cir­ cuits, the Ingham Circuit and the Livingston Circuit. By the 1880's a railroad building boom was going on White Oak was served by two classes, the Dart Class in Michigan. The Grand Truck Railroad passed which was held at the Dart School on Iosco Road and through the fann of Philander Gregory in Unadilla the Dutcher Class, held at the Dutcher School at the Township in 1884 causing the creating of the village of comer of Swan and Burden Roads. The classes were Gregory. By 1880, the saw mill had ceased to operate, supplied once every two weeks by a preacher from the coopers' shop was gone and the general store no Dansville. longer existed. Gregory was growing and Williams­ ville was shrinking and talk turned toward moving the In 1877, the White Oak Class was permanently named Church to Gregory, a move ofless than two miles. the Millville Class. Classes were held in the Millville This move was approved without objection in a meet­ School. The Millville school was taken down when ing held December 11, 1886. M-52 was widened in 1968.

The First Baptist Church of Gregory was dedicated The parsonage was purchased from Albert Allen. It December 18, 1887. A photograph of the church taken has been remodeled several times and was partially in the early 20th century shows high rectangular win- destroyed by fire in 1960 and rebuilt. The current dows of style not in vogue at the time. No record indi- church was built in 1898. It was dedicated in Septem- cates this but Thomas Howlett feels these windows her of 1898. The circuit at that time consisted of Mill- probably came from the Williamsville church. ville, Northwest Stockbridge and Vantown.

These are the significant events in the establishment of Rev. Robert Freysinger is the current Pastor. The what is now the Gregory Community Church. The church has an active youth group with 15-30 mem­ current minister is Heidi DeMott Shanes. The Church bers, a United Methodist Women's group with 28 maintains a clothes closet. The closet is open the first members and a United Methodist Men's group. The Saturday of the month from 10 to 12 and on the third church was declared an historic building by the Ing­ Thursday of the month from 6 to 8:30. ham County Historical Commission in 2008.

Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries Marion Collier playing piano at 2007 alumni banquet

Back: Robert, Dora, Herbert, Gum Dancer. Front: Paul, William J. Jeness Dancer

Charles Schumacher and chickens

William Willmore, Eliza Helen Baker Willmore, Johanan C. Willmore, Minnie Willmore Green, Nell Willmore Fitch, Sylvia Willmore Brown

Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries SSBBank (formerly Stockbridge State Bank)

In 1908, William J. Dancer organized the Stockbridge Douglas Orton was elected president and Ronald Soule State Bank (now known simply as SSBBank) with a was elected vice-president and CEO. J. Benjamin capitalization of$20,000. He was president of the Dancer was elected chairman of the board in 2000. In bank, Orville Gorton was vice president and John 2001, Ronald Soule was elected president.. Hubert was cashier. Directors were Dr. Christopher Brogan, Edwin Farmer, A. A. Hall, S. L. Cobb, Customers have always been of utmost importance to Emanuel Hawley, Charles Gaylord, N. E. McCann, the management and staff of the bank. Former Presi­ William J. Dancer and Orville Gorton. dent Paul C. Dancer said, "You can have a great Board of Directors and a wonderful list of services, but it's the The bank was organized in 1908 to save the Stock­ customers that make the bank." This was emphasized bridge community from financial chaos. In 1907, the by former President, JohnT. Dancer, who said, "Our Commercial Bank of Geo. P. Glazier & Gay (a bank in customers have always been the primary focus of this which the Michigan state treasurer had an interest) had operation. We want them to be comfortable here and been closed. The community was without a bank and we want them to be very secure in their financial deal­ the people had had their confidence shaken in banking. ings." The show of confidence and trust that the organizers of . the new Stockbridge State Bank had shown to the com- According to current President, Ronald L. Soule, munity and in each other quieted the fears of those who · "SSBBank is proud of our past and in our role as the had been hurt in the bank closing of the former Com- foremost provider of financial services in the village of mercial Bank of Geo. P. Glazier and Gay. Shortly, a Stockbridge since 1908. We have a history of offering feeling of confidence replaced the gloom of the bank- personal hometown service in central Michigan for ing disaster and Stockbridge began to prosper. over 100 years. We are dedicated to providing high quality service and superior financial programs to our Stockbridge State Bank opened for business in the for­ customers including the latest in online banking sys­ mer offices of the Commercial Bank located in the 100 tems, while at the same time, maintaining a strong se­ block of West Main Street, Stockbridge in the far cure financial position. We have always been commu­ southeastern comer of Ingham County and is the sec­ nity oriented and have demonstrated this by responsibly ond oldest bank still operating in Ingham County. The lending to local businesses and citizens within an area Stockbridge office serves customers in Ingham, Jack­ that we could adequately serve. Meeting the deposit son, Livingston and Washtenaw Counties. In 1966, the and credit needs of our communities is our primary Stockbridge office moved to a large newly built facility purpose for existence." just across the street from the original bank. (The old bank is now the location of the Abbott & Fillmore Officers of the bank are: J. Benjamin Dancer, Chair­ Agency, Inc.) man of the Board of Directors; Ronald L. Soule, Presi­ , dent & CEO; Robert C. Dickins, Executive Vice Presi­ The bank opened its second office in Gregory on the dent & CLO; Thomas W. Schroeder, Senior Vice Presi­ western edge of Livingston County in 1964. In 1991, a dent; Donna Lippens, Senior Vice President & COO; third office was opened in Eaton Rapids on the eastern Al Stout, Vice President; Jrunie D. Bennett, Asst. Vice side of Eaton County. In preparation for even more President and Controller; Trisha Klingbeil, Asst. Vice branches in the future, the bank decided in 2002 to offi­ President & CBO; Kim Richmond, Asst. Vice Presi­ cially change its name from Stockbridge State Bank to dent & CIO; Kristi Brewster, Branch Administrative SSBBank. After the bank's name was changed, a Officer; Dawn Hendrickson, Loan Officer and Eaton fourth office was opened in Holt/South Lansing in Rapids Branch Manager; and Lisa R. Schneider, Ad­ 2004. ministrative Loan Officer.

W. J. Dancer remained active in the business until his The members of the Board of Directors are: J. Benja­ death in 1942, at which time his third son, Paul C. min Dancer, Chairman; Jeffrey A. Caskey, Vice Chair­ Dancer, was elected president. In 1985, John T. man; Robert C. Dickins; Rich A. Greiner; Mark R. Dancer was elected president of the bank. In 1993, Haubert; C. Jack Potts; and Ronald L. Soule.

Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries If Eaton Rapids · ssb-bank.com

Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries Abbott & Fillmore Agency, Inc.

In 1945, Wendell Abbott began selling real estate from leaving Ronald and Hester as sole owners. Wendell his farm home on South M-52, Stockbridge. He ran a passed away in 1994 and Marjorie is still living in the branch office for the Whipp Farm Agency at that time. house at 320 S. Clinton and celebrated her lOOth During this period, Wendell began selling dwelling and birthday in May in 2010. farm insurance. On March 1, 1995, Ron and Hester's son, Jon Fill­ In 194 7, Wendell and his wife, Marjorie, moved to a more, passed on Wall Street in favor of 105 W. Main new home at 320 S. Clinton Street, where they contin­ Street. He purchased the agency from his parents at ued with real estate and insurance and added a Secre­ that time. Jon had earned a degree in finance from tary of State branch office, where they sold license Michigan State University's Business School and plates. been a vice president at Comerica in Detroit and Dal­ las prior to that time. Ronald stayed for two years Marjorie was licensed to sell insurance in 1956 and in before retiring in August of 1997 and Hester stayed on 1958 WendeH resigned from the Secretary of State as a part time bookkeeper for a few years after that. branch office and continued full time with the real es­ Ronald passed away in October 1998. tate and insurance. Under Jon's management, the agency continued to In 1967, the Abbotts moved their business to the cur­ grow. Jon completed his MBA from the University of rent location at 105 W. Main Street and Ronald Fill­ Michigan Business School in 1999. Beginning as a more joined the agency as a partner. After receiving class project during his MBA studies, John moved the his Bachelor's and Master's degrees from Eastern Abbott & Fillmore Agency into the age of the internet. Michigan University, Ronald was a teacher for the In the mid-1990's, the agency was one of the very first Stockbridge Schools before being recruited by in the state of Michigan to have a web site where peo­ Wendell. Arloa Smith was hired as an office worker at ple could go to get quotes on line. The web site is at that time. Arloa worked at the Agency until she retired www.insurancemichigan.com. Jn 2006, the company in 2007, making her 40 years at the company, the long­ discontinued paper files and moved to a completely est for any employee (including the owners) thus far. electronic filing system and also implemented one of the cutting edge office technologies-DUAL monitors The name of the agency was changed from "The Ab­ on all computer work stations. bott Agency" to "The Abbott & Fillmore Agency, Inc." in 1974 and in 1977, Ronald's wife Hester, also a The company has also expanded into other states and, fonner school teacher, joined the business. in addition to Michigan, now has clients in Indiana and Arizona. Jn addition to Jon, the company has 7 On January 1, 1985, Wendell and Marjorie both retired other employees

Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries The Abbott & Fillmore Agency, Inc.

~Allsta'la -Since 1946 - .Auto-Owner.~ 'm•'n, ''S

Modern Technology Combined With Old Fashioned, Small Town Service!

Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries Farmers State Bank

Farmers State Bank ofMunith was founded in 1922 by ing next to the original location. In 1990, the first 43 area fanners and small business proprietors to meet branch office was added in Stockbridge and in 1995 the the banking needs of a rural but fast growing commu­ Grass Lake office opened for business. Today, the nity. Stockholders met for the first time on June 19, bank benefits from 150,000 shares of outstanding com­ 1922 and elected seven upstanding community leaders mon stock owned by approximately 265 local commu­ to run the brand new bank. Those newly elected direc­ nity members and holds $62, 113,000.00 in assets. tors were William E. Fleming, John Harr, Ottmar F. Moeckel, E. A. Parks, V. R. Weeks, Wm. S. O'Brien "Obviously, my predecessors did a lot of the right a.id Chas. Pickett On September 7, 1922 Hugh A. things," commented Craig Goodloe!<, Chairman and McPherson, commissioner of the Michigan Banking Chief Executive Officer. "They may not have talked in Department, wrote a letter indicating that the bank was terms of marketing mix, debit cards, home equity lines, in compliance with all provisions of the law and a bank wire transfers and computer software, but our motto, charter was issued to Farmers State Bank. 250 shares "The bank where you feel at home," has set our mar­ of common stock were outstanding and held by 43 keting strategy for most, if not all, of our 88 years. We shareholders with total assets of$25,000.00. In order still stress that strategy throughout the bank. We're all to reopen its doors after the Depression era bank holi­ proud of the fine heritage supporting us, and we plan to day, each of the stockholders was required to reinvest continue to offer professional banking services weU his or her initial capital investment, effectively dou­ into the future." bling the stockholder equity in the corporation. Most did but several who could not sold to existing or new stockholders who had cash available.

The bank has been managed by seven Chairmen of the Board: William E. Fleming, Charles Pickett, John G. Harr, P. J. Fleming, Fred W. Ford, Wilbur L. Beeman and Craig M. Goodlock. The current Board of Direc­ tors consist of Don Hannewald, Leonard Clark, Jay Hoffinan, Penny Hicks, Jeanne Richter and Craig M. Good lock.

As with many small community banks, Farmers State Bank had only one office for many years, located in its .- town of origin, Munith. Jn 1977, when fire destroyed the Gingham Inn and made the adjacent lot available, the office was reloca~ed to th9 newly constructed build- Teller at old Munith bank.

Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries farmers :r State Bank The bank where you feel at home.

We have 3 convenient, full-service offices. M Hour ATM's are available at all 3 locations.

Munith Grass Lake Stockbridge

20 I North Maio Street 12005 Michigan Avenue 5101 M-106 P.O. Box217 P.O. Box460 P.O. Box699 Munith, Ml 49259 Grass Lake, Ml 49240 Stockbridge, Ml 49285 (517) 596-2311 (517) 522-8131 (517) 851-8888 FAX (517) 596-2684 FAX (517) 522-5343 FAX (517) 851-7825

Bank 24 hours a day, 365 days a year with Online Banking www.farmerstatebank.com or Touch-Tone Banker (517) 596-7077 or 1-888-596-7077

Serving this community since 1922

MEMBER FDIC

Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries Stockbridge Auto Care, Inc. joined the business and now the bro~ers run th~ business together. Since 1995 the Mitchell family The old D & C warehouse building was built in 1900 has been fortunate to carry on the tradition of care by the Clarks. It is located at 121 East Elizabeth Street. that had been set by the Milner and Caskey families. The building is owned by Don McAlister, Jr. Current Place, businesses in the building are: Carquest the Parts The business was started by the Louis M. Milner operated by Charlie Bissell; The Stockbridge Barber family in 1898 and moved to its present location in Shop operated by Susanne Tappen and mother Sally 1925. The house was built in 1894 by Asher J. by Mr. and Weed and Stockbridge Auto Care, operated Miller. The Milner tradition was continued when Mrs. Don McAlister, Jr. and son Josh McAiister. Louis's son, Hugh joined the family business.

Mrs. Clark had a bakery and resta~t in the center of The Caskey family was entrusted with funeral ser- the building and the Clarks lived in the west end. In vice in Stockbridge when Bill and his wife Beverly 1902 Mr. Clark passed away with the commodious mill purchased the business from Hugh Milner afte~ a almost completed. Other businesses that have resided working relationship that started long before Bill over the years include: The Stockbridge Chair Factory, graduated from Mortuary School at Wayne State . making Kaltex furniture and baskets; D & C (Dancer & University in 1942. In 1973 the funeral home went Cowan) warehouse; Bob Glover K & R TV; Family under a major renovation and the porch was replaced Tree; Screw Factory; Kim & Company and in 1999, by the three story brick fa~ade with circle windows Stockbridge Auto Care Service Center was added to the and stained glass windows still present today. The ·back of the building. Caskey ~dition continued when Bill's son, Jeffrey joining the business in 1975. He also graduated from Caskey-Mitchell Funeral Home, Inc. Wayne State University. Funeral service in Stockbridge is provided by the Mitchell Family. John and Gloria and son Johnny and From 1898 to 2010 the funeral home bas always been wife Cindy purchased the business from the Caskey a family owned and operated busiiness. Happy l 75th family in August of 1995. In 2004 Mike Mitchell Stockbridge, from the Mitchell family.

Congratulations Stockbridge on your 17 5th Anniversary

l'.0. Uox 202 Corner of Neu Rd. and M- 106 Munith, Ml 49259

www.jcruclbaplist.org [email protected]

Pastor Bob Castle 517-596-2128

"A traditional church with a dynamic family atmosphere and a warm country flavor"

Sunday School 10:00 A.M. Worship 11 :00 A.M. Wednesday Night Sunday Evening 6:00 P.M . Youth Group & Bible l.ight Cadets 6:30 P.M . Adult Prayer meeting 7:00 P.M.

Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries . ., £517 ;3~:

Best Wishes to the Stockbridge Area On its 175th Birthday

From the Mitchel/family at CASKEY-MITCHELL FUNERAL HOME, INC. 424 East Main Street Stockbridge, Michigan

Phone 517-851-7755

Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries Gordie's Power Equipment delivering aggregate material, installing drives and grading. Mick and Jim are also running a farming Established June 2006 operation. Congratulations to the Stockbridge Community on Here to help you with all your excavating needs, we celebrating their 175th anniversary. congratulate Stockbridge and the surrounding area on their 175th anniversary. Gordie remembers celebrating the 150th anniversary as a keystone cop for the Gregory Jaycee's, traveling to neighboring towns to invite them to participate in the Kim & Company festivities of the community's history. Salon & Wellness Spa 124 E. Main St., Stockbrige, MI History evolves as a business grows and faces change. (517) 851-7062 (www.kimcosalon.com) How do you go from working for the "oldest" Simplic­ Serving the community for twenty-five years ity Dealer to the ''youngest" Simplicity Dealer? Open your own business. That is what Gordon Kunzelman Kim & Company, Salon & Wellness Spa, was estab­ did in June of2006 after Howlett's Hardware was sold. lished in September 1985 by owner Kim (Long) Bat­ Gordie has been servicing the community for over 37 dorff and is located in the village of Stockbridge. years. You will find Gordie's new business located in Kim a lifetime resident of Stockbridge, had a deep the former Breniser's Auto Garage in downtown Greg­ passion for this industry and a dream to own a full ory. service salon. After completing her education in cos­ metology, she worked in the Detroit area as a hair Gordie was just a pup when he worked at Howlett stylist, returning to her hometown where she worked Brothers Hardware learning the tractor repair business. at The Hair Affair, owned by Marge Minix, prior to He learned his trade from Russell Whitehead, Herb opening Kim & Company. To prepare for her new Miller, Jack Potts and the Howlett Brothers-Dan and business venture she completed small business classes Tom. at Lansing Community College.

Gordie's day starts early in the morning organizing the When the doors opened in 1985 at 121 E. Elizabeth, work flow for the service techs, Fred, George and John. now the Village Barber Shop's location, we started The business services and sells Simplicity lawn and with the basic salon decor. The salon logo at the time garden products, Dolmar Chain Saws and the works. was a K for Kim & Company. A centrally located Bookwork is never ending with the ordering of parts support beam was made into a K, thanks to Paul Mur­ and endless paperwork. The record keeping is shared phy. Kim was the only hair stylist and HAIR was the with wife Penny who bandies the monthly sales, pay­ only service. The first employee was Robin (Lowe) roll and tax preparation:;. Fletcher, a relative hired as a receptionist and later a hair stylist and nail technician. Today she is assistant Gordie's Power Equipment hosts a daily coffee hour manager. Joyce Salyer was hired for nails and hair for the dozen or so ''town fathers" who reminisce about and has since retired. past history. They are full of the good old days when... They are truly the ones who have lived the The decor changed in 1990 to go along with a new history of the community. trendy "Paul Mitchell" look, black and white walls and white styling stations. As the business grew so Ted Watters & Sons, Inc. did the staff and services. Stylist LeAnn (Cowan) Jackson and, later, Patty Fletcher joined our team. Ted Watters & Sons was established in 1967 by Ted Other stylists came and went as well as some recep­ Watters. Ted started out doing residential excavating. tionists. Receptionists with longevity were Amy and In the 1970's, Ted expanded his business and began Kelly Wright, Sarah Ford and Melissa Laramore Sal­ doing oilfield site work and road building. His sons, yer, our receptionist today. Mick and Jim, started getting involved with their fa­ ther in the mid 1970's. Currently, Ted is retired. The price of haircuts was $6.00 to $10.00. We ran a Mick and Jim are doing residential excavating such as ninety-nine cent haircut special and had more clients digging basements, installing drain fields and septics, than we knew what to do with. Using clippers, we

Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries C. G LANTIS & DAUGHTERS

5116 South M-106, Suite A

Stockbridge, Michigan 49285

Phone 517-851-8800

Mini Storage and Commercial Property Rentals

<> Simplici/11. The way to a beautiful lawn.

851-8455 On the north side of the Town Square A Gordie's Power Equipment Sales & Service 130 Main St. Bus: 734-498-2200 P. o. Box 75 Fax: 734-498-2206 Gregory, Ml 48137 Cell: 734-385-661 ·r

Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries designed famous sports players initials or numbers in Senior Activity Center and Habitat for Humanity. We student haircuts or did some funky color. Spiral perms also have an open house around the holidays for Client were the rage. To get that effect we used corkscrew Appreciation Day. style rods or actual rope. You name it and we tried it. Sometimes we used as many as 300 perm rods. The Kim & Company will be celebrating twenty-five years corkscrew perm rods would fill up with water and be­ in business this year. As we look back at these past come so heavy that the client could hardly hold her years at all the changes and challenges from growth of head up. Those were the good old days. the business to changes in this industry and our econ­ omy, no challenge can be so great and unexpected as To accommodate our growth we moved to our current seeing your dream come true, yet not being able to con­ location in December 1997, in the process taking on a tinue with your passion. Kim's dream of owning a full whole new look. Today our "unique look'' is antique service salon has been fulfilled. March 2003, she could dressers for styling stations and decor including a wall no longer continue to work because of health issues and painting done by Jean Bliss. Dawne BatdorffSalow, was later diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis. Now massage therapist and esthetician, was hired to provide Kim's dream is to regain her health and someday return our new services, massage, skin care and reflexology. to her profession. We added a new product line, A VEDA (the art and science of pure flower and plant essences), and organic OUR TEAM hair, skin, body and makeup line. Veronica Lozon, a Robin Fletcher Assistant Manager stylist, joined our team. We were trendsetters then and Stylist/Nail Technician continue today. Dawne B. Salow Massage Therapist Esthetician Our ultimate focus is and always has been to create a LeAnn Jackson Stylist warm friendly family environment for clients and staff. Patricia Fletcher Stylist/Nail Technician Our aim is to understand our clients' needs by provid­ Amanda Maddick Stylist/Manicures/Pedicures ing them with excellent service, products and quality Part Time Receptionist customer care. Veronica Lozon Stylist/Nail Technician Tanya Kilgore Nail Technician The salon is managed by Janet Long, Kim's mother, Melissa Salyer Receptionist and is a full service salon for the entire family. Our clientele has approximately a fifty mile radius with Marathon and Atlas Oil clients from all lifestyles. We offer services in hair, natural and acrylic nails, spa pedicures, specialized skin Your Neighborhood Station care, reflexology, therapeutic massage, make-up appli­ cation, body wraps, self-tanning applications, full body Congratulations to the Village of hair removal and ear piercing. We specialize in event Stockbridge on your l 75th anni­ bookings and spa package services. Most include light versary. While many things in lunches. To date we have eight employees with most the neighborhood have changed having I 0 to 20 years with the salon. Our most recent through the years, the local com­ employee is stylist Amanda Maddick who is also a part munity spirit has not. time receptionist and Tanya Kilgore, a nail technician. We are team oriented. Marathon and Atlas Oil are proud to be a part of the Continuing education is imperative in this business. community of Stockbridge. We look forward to con­ Aside from the in-salon training, over the years some tinuing to serve your needs at our location at 649 West of our staff attend hair shows in Las Vegas, a Carib­ Main Street. In addition to supplying gasoline, diesel bean Cruise, Hawaii, Soaring Eagle Casino and the and biodiesel, our convenience store offers hot and cold Gem Theatre in Detroit. The salon participates in out­ beverages, hot food, beer and wine and many more side events by donating gift certificates for services and useful products. We have both cash and credit options products to schools, churches, community organiza­ available. tions and earth month. Some of team have participated in Big Time Wrestling events, Single Moms Day spon­ Stop in and see for yourself. Our store manager is sored by a local church, Muscular Dystrophy Benefit Agnes Caudill. Agnes can be reached at 517-851- "lock-up," Chelsea Silver Maples Retirement Home, 9129.

Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries Congratulations Stockbridge 1urmun l i~; •rt1 1 Happ) !15th Birthda) On Celebrating Your 17Sth Anniversary

1 ,,~ ' 'Sening Stockbr!dSe Area Since 196'f et US Tame Your Mane 4839 M-36 e 517-851-7730 - ----····-·- \~,:( \'.!alfi!.S.~oi,:· ,r:·11'f:,,· 1,,, Ted, Mick, Jim J•·r.ih:K ln)Jlliire rn..N«IJOOfiv• f.l.~1·11,~,b1~ ''" )'' ..1, lkr. ,i 1i1 ,.J,_S:J.~,.J..tlv..1 · 1 -;-,,r.~.\h1.:/~~'":~:~11, 1~,

ffit»1 gComran~ )olon &Well nel) ~~a Ser~ng oor clienh for O\'er 25 yeors. i From the ! Hair .. Nails .. Pedicures .. Facials I Personaliud Skin um .I ~~i .: ...... Massage IEuropean Stone .. Rejlexofugy I :! I LD , Soft Heat Sauna .. Full Body Hair Removal .~_,..... rr-- "" l ' ... \ Special Event Bookingr wwwJimcosalon.com ~Y.,.ill,~ ~~M~ Pl.ANT AA'JJR.OWER ~ I Acting Up in Stockbridge Open 5Days &Ewnirrgs • 124 EMain • Stockbridge for 1/17th of her history! :JS 17}851 ·7062 ·~~

Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries Carquest the Parts Place Roepcke Insurance Agency

In November of 1963 the father and son team of Frank The Roepcke Agency, established in 1930 by Fred and Dewey Seehase left their Phillips 66 Station, which Roepcke, has been giving Stockbridge and the sur­ included wrecker and fuel oil delivery, to move to Holt rounding area dependable insurance service since that to open Holt Auto Supply, Inc. Forty-four years later, time. sons Dick and Dave along with their sister, Cindy and her husband, Larry Meirndort: own and operate eight In 1939 Niel Mills, foster son ofFred Roepcke,joined auto parts stores known as CARQUEST-The Parts the agency as a producer. With the help and assistance Place. Stockbridge Auto Supply, better known to the of Niel's wife Marie, they built a local rural business old timers as "The Old Chair Factory." was purchased known for honest and fair service. Fred Roepcke, the from Don McAlister by Dick and Dave Seehase and original founder, died in 1953 and, under the direction became one of those eight locations. Charlie Bissell, a of Niel and Marie Mills, the agency continued to grow life-long resident of the Stockbridge area, has managed and prosper. In 1971, Niel and Marie Mills' son, this location since its purchase in 2002. Family owned Doug, left the teaching profession and joined his par­ and operated, CARQUEST-The Parts Place serves four ents in the family owned agency. counties in seven different towns. Stop by the Stock­ bridge location and experience an atmosphere where In 1973, Doug Mills bought the business from his par­ family values are still important. ents and in 1975 moved into a new office building at 517 West Main Street, built to satisfy the increasing Tracy Graphics needs of the growing business.

Doug's sister, Lorraine Mills Massey, worked in the agency for 25 years until her retirement in 2007. The business has enjoyed continuous expansion and growth since 1973 and Doug is looking forward to many more years of service to the Stockbridge area.

Lynne Beauchamp Photography Award-Winning Photography People often ask me, "How long have you been doing this?" An honest and simple question yet one I never knew how to answer. Since my childhood, I have al­ ways had a camera in hand photographing animals on our family farm in Fowlerville or taking photographs of Bob Tracy started a hobby in his home in 1993. He steam engine shows or family reunions. At Fowlerville always had an interest in painting, drawing and art in High School I was in yearbook class for 2 years, in general. A friend was opening a restaurant and charge of advertising and photographing the year's needed a sign for the building. Bob decided to take on events. Even back then I made it a point to include the challenge to construct, design and hand paint the everyone in the yearbook, not just "the popular kids." I large outdoor sign before the grand opening. also realized that ifl incorporated candid photographs into the advertising section of the book, it might get His hobby continued to grow and within a few years, more individuals to look at the sponsors' ads. he quit his full time job as a specialty gas salesman to pursue the sign making business. As c~stome~' In the early 1990's, I was working as a medical assis- needs changed, Bob offered new and different items to tant and not very happy with my current job. A co- keep up with the demand. worker commented on my photographs sitting on my desk. At that point I realized that photography was At the present time in 2010, Tracy Graphics is located what I should be doing with my life. I immediately on the south side of Stockbridge in the Lantis Plaza. enrolled at Lansing Community College in the imaging The store offers screen printed apparel, embroidery, program. team unifonns, vehicle lettering and also signs of any shape and size. I began taking photographs for an insurance company

Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries -.

1v1v11·1 11 o.vv·v.w Sat ·8:00 ·3:00

ANIMAL BLOOD RESOURCES IS LOOKING FOR VOLUNTEERS AGES IO TO 100 TO CUD­ DLE, GROOM AND PLAY WITH OUR CATS & DOGS

Volunteers must complete a one-hour training ses­ sion which is conducted quarterly. A paren! must accompany youth volunteers (ages l 0-17) AND IF YOU ARE LOOKING FOR THAT ONE OF A KIND PET YOU CAN ADOPT A RETIRED BLOOD DONOR

Animal blood donors have been with Animal Blood Resources International for a year and are now ready for their forever home. Animals are in great health and behavior tested To find out more, call us at 517-851-8244 or visit us online at www.midwestabs.com.

Stockb idge Turns 17 5 The first township in Ingham County 10 be ,;culcd. Stockbridge is now SUPPLY turning 175 \luch has changed 'vfuch has stayed the same. Lei us cekbratc both - together J'lli W~binStmtSt•dd!~r517-8 51-8000 . - I- Publisher Dri11"\l:z)'Gc&npnJ lll5tl11.rtion The Sun Times 2008-Present 1 R N ' -- ~ . : o 11en . •ester 1 Gmcl • T:.i 1 1 •• nOX ~-+o 1 1 l4'Th.'xn11'1f l-<"~ Sp(il!cr> • \l'1•Jd lloc,x · tlt.~~·Jc~ h.mac"C> Stockbridge \ 1 \\~,..J Pm1::!S--fflg f:~r.um J!'!d Aa:..,~116 Reporting the news in ML 492gs ; O P E N A L L YEAR! Stockbridge for 128 yaars · (5 I 7iR5 l-:~m ; Fl\.\.\(N;.\HILlSU: Emai1: i infoii1'1hcsun Happy Birthday iii~HCSHC\\ " S. ("0Ill ; Stockbridge! "'r. m··· ··r"h}''·A''-· .·. ,

Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries and for a real estate business (which I continue to work The Stockbridge Diner with). I also started working with other photo studios learning everything that I possibly could about posing, sales, framing portraits and the business aspect of a studio. Gradually I started my own photography busi­ ness photographing mostly on location including fam­ ily portraits, sports and other events.

After building our new home in Stockbridge in 2005, I set up a studio in the basement.

My hours are by appointment and I photograph seniors, family and individual portraits, pets, sports and other events, either on location or in studio. While competi­ tion is fierce in the photographic industry, I specializ.e in offering clients a comfortable atmosphere to come to and offer high quality products at reasonable prices.

I have had photographs on display in the local Ron Fillmore Art Show for the past three years and am pleased to have won awards two years in a row for my work.

My husband, Bill. my son, Tyler, and my daughter, Hannah, have been very supportive of my business endeavor. Whether I needed a model for a new back­ drop, needed assistance in setting up lights or help in keeping clients' children entertained during a sales appointment, my family has helped me in every way. When you step into the Stockbridge Diner, you feel I am honored to be included in the l 75th anniversary like you're walking onto the set of the TV series book and look forward to meeting everyone during the "Deadwood." Owner Keith Pawlowski has taken great celebration. pains in remodeling the circa l 890's era building back to its original splendor. Windows and doors, some of which longtime patrons of previous incarnations didn't even know existed, were uncovered in the latest reno­ vations and replaced. The diner has a long and colorful history, originally starting out as a confectionary. We're not sure what that meant in the 1890's but that was how it was known in the village over I 00 years ago. It also served as a recreational gathering place and many hands of cards were dealt in the backroom ac­ cording to the local old timers. Many of us remember restaurants that have been in the old building over the years; but none offered the old fashioned charm it has now, even with the modernization that has taken place. In fact, it reminds me of an old diner along the famous "Route 66." Accenting the decor are many photo­ graphs of area buildings from the turn of the 19th cen- ' tury. Stop in and visit with the friendly staff and have an old-fashioned hearty meal while enjoying a bit of the local history. Located at 110 East Main Street on the town square, the diner is family owned and oper­ ated since 2009.

Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries WILD SANITATION

P. 0 . Box 188 Stockbridge. Michigan 49285 Toll free l-877-821 -4771 or l-517-851 -7695 www.wi ldsanitation.com

•

Providing Septic Tank Cleaning and Portable Toilet Service

The STAGE STOP RESTAURANT 5 55 West Main Street Since 1989 PURVEYORS of GOOD FOOD (Fonnerly known as Sam's Drive-In from the 1950's) Owners: Doug and Eva Lou Mills

Our compliments to the Stockbridge Area 175th celebration

Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries Stockbridge Barber Shop

Gordon Nawrock retired in 1989. Michael and Sally over the shop in October of 1989. The shop Weed took Don J-lannewald r was located at 121 North Clinton Street, just north of the RO-OF'""~G. Fi..i:•""CUCLrN.G SIO~NC. ft,""cC post office. We occupied the address until it burned in ~t::;·::;:.:,;-.-:-:.-=._ CCN5Tfi!.• .tct;O"'I September of 1999. We moved to the back of the old hotel three weeks later. I worked the shop alone until !..:10~0 00'-'l.'Ol~·H HO~ ~~-:-ocKBP

C&CRepair C & C Repair LLC ====- Here at C & C Repair, we can repair any make of trac­ Perfcrr1.•nce Fer AU Siz"'"5 tor, skid steers, lawn mowers, A TV's, campers, motor F:1rn1 Tr...;('for.. • L:->:'-\ll \iH\'.CN. homes, small construction equipment and small en­ Small En~in•:• • R\"'s • \TV'' gines. From an oil change to a complete overhaul, C & C has top technicians to accommodate your needs. We H .. \, :- .,, :Hl 'r- 1,.-.. ,r I .\ f, ·~f,.J;, I i· l:r ...·i1 1 i;. ·: ... _., t•·•.:td.. f.f .. weld and fabricate and restore your tractor with a new P;it' bd; Shop Brei! Cbr!. paint job or fix your camper furnace and all appliances. 5~ 7.262 .2321 517.596.3400 517 .262. SP 32 We can pick up and deliver to your house and farm. We know that you depend on your equipment, so you can depend on us. We service Lansing , Jackson, Ann Arbor, Brighton, Stockbridge, Leslie, Marshall, How­ ell, Mason and other areas. Our work is as good as your dealers but our prices are better.

Bremiller Boom Service

Bremiller Boom Service is owned by John Bremiller. He is the sole proprietor. So he is also the operator of the boom truck (crane). He started this business in 1997 with a 1978 International 8 ton boom truck. In July of2003 he was able to upgrade to a 1999 Interna­ tional 21 ton boom truck. The majority of his jobs are lifting trusses, I-beams, A.C. units and logs for new log ~ -. <5-i71851-7,,C'c homes. stcckbricigedine;·.co.,·

Before he started this business, John was a carpenter in the area for over 20 years. He was known as Brem iller Construction then.

John grew up in Gregory and went to Stockbridge ·1· .Ll0.i ·~ '.-.; schools along with his 10 brothers and sisters.

r

Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries ROEPCKEINSURANCEAGENCY

Douglas D. Mills, Owner

80 years ofInsurance Service to the Stockbridge Area

CONGRATULATIIONS

AND

HAPPY 175TH BIRTHDAY

TO

OUR COMMUNITY

HAPPY 175TH BIRTHDAY FROM THE FOLKS WHO PUT THIS BOOK TOGETHER

Janet Pendell Ruth Camp Pastor Bob Castle Vickie Osborne Linda Collins RhodaMcVay Ruth Taylor Olivia Roberts Barbara Kruzinski Andrea Stickney Mary Ellen Ramsdell Luci Stoffer Marcy Tracy Lynn Beauchamp Mike Fletcher Wilma Jean Fletcher Dutch Ramsdell, Chair

Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries Stockbridge Pharmacy Stockbridge Barber Shop 121 Elizabeth Street, Suite 1 Stockbridge, MI Susanne Tappan 517-851-7222 Closed Sunday and Monday

'Michigan Gec:r BOOS -~~£::.it I l'::ngmeer.ng :'l'o."l:i-Ot~

.:7:-4 I ..!98<2207 F;..x (;'341 t!9S-::.S23

The crew: Kayla Recchy, Dave Bust, Judy Krisniski, Glenda Bailey, Angie Marchum, Penny Valentine In honor of my parents The first phannacy in Stockbridge was that of Glazier, CASPER (C. W.) & ETHEL GLENN Latimer & Co., established in 1883. A couple of years later, the pharmacy was sold to Casper E. DePuy. In Long time busmess and community leaders 1898, Mr. DePuy took in a partner, Alden W. Brown, in in Stockbridge and the firm became known as DePuy & Brown. Mr. DePuy retired in 1910 and Mr. Brown became the sole by owner, renaming the firm The A. W. Brown Co. Mr. Dorene White Brown remained the sole owner until 1934 when he took in a partner, John C. Willmore, who happened to be his nephew. After Mr. Brown's retirement in 1957, Mr. Willmore took in Clifford C. Bollman as a partner but retained the name The A. W. Brown Co. Mr. Willmore retired in 1967 leaving Mr. Bollman as the sole owner.

On November l, 1981, Mr. Bollman sold the A. W. Brown Co. to Chelsea Pharmacy, Inc. The name was changed to Stockbridge Pharmacy. Dale Schumann was the store manager.

The pharmacy had been located at the comer of Clin­ ton and Main where Specialty Satellite and The Sun Times are now located since 1883. The pharmacy has since been relocated to the old Dancers store on South Clinton.

Fred Grice, Jr. became the owner in 2004. Hometown Pharmacy is a full service pharmacy with health and grooming goods, stationery, cards, gifts and notions. It is part of a chain with pharmacies in the nearby towns of Chelsea and Manchester.

Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries STOCKBRIDGE-GREGORY GARDEN TOUR 2010

STOCKBRIDGE GARDEN CLUB SATURDAY, JUNE 26 NOON TO 4:00 P.M.

BUSEN GARDENS, 530 WATER STREET, STOCKBRIDGE

LINDEMER GARDENS, 515 EAST MORTON STREET, STOCKBRIDGE

LAIRD'S WILD IRIS FARM, 144 MAPLE STREET, STOCKBRIDGE

WILLIAM'S GARDENS, 19425 SPEARS ROAD, GREGORY

HAUSE'IENDA GARDENS, 17620 GREGORY ROAD, GREGORY

STEINGASSER-KRULIKOWSKI GARDENS, 11599 ROBERTS, GREGORY

ALL PROCEEDS GO TO THE 175 ANNlVERSARY STOCKBRIDGE AREA CELEBRATION COMMITTEE

HOME'~ _J> H A fiMACY A U TO SERVICE ...... STOCKBRIDGE PHARMACY 517-851-8419 Open 9 am - 7 pm Mon. - Fri. • 9-2 Sat. Hallmark Cards • Gifts • Yankee Candles 110 South Clinton. · ~· · Stockbridge . i

517-851-7575 K) ... % Brakes Engine Repair Front End Allignment Electrical Engine Diagnostics Air Conditioning family 1~ L~rcfim mun ity ;;.lll·11Al~fl_- ,,..,, ,. .J!. ii,.-· irust 123 W. Main Street Mike Carney Suite D Owner Stockbridge, Ml 49285

Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries D & J Floors them from the time I began walking. I still worked for Gilbert floors. Jack's son, John, was then By Donnie Fletcher running the business. So I would work the 2°d shift at Stockbridge Manufacturing. During the day, I After graduating from Stockbridge High School in would do floors. 1962, rather than furthering my education, I thought I'd get a good factory job. But there were not many At one point, we were working for an engineer and I available, except for farm work. So I worked on a was working by myself. The engineer made a farm during summer making 75 cents an hour. Gas comment that I should go into business on my own. was 33 cents a gallon and a new car payment was He said I could make a good living. He really gave $75.00 a month. me a good pep talk. The engineer's aunt was a realtor. The two of them said they would help with Then my brother-in-law introduced me to a recommendations and referrals. The engineer really gentleman named Jack Gilbert of North Lake. He motivated me. When I got home, I told my wife, I had a hardwood floor business, working mostly in was going into the floor business. I didn't have the Ann Arbor, installing, sanding and refinishing funds to buy equipment. I needed about $10,000. hardwood floors. He also pastes waxed and cleaned So my wife, Jean, called the Munith bank and talked wood floors. We did work for the University of to Craig Goodlock. He said to come to the bank and Michigan, and residential, and contractors. Jack we'll talk about it. So we got a loan. gave me a job. He was well known and he knew a lot of people, so his business was excellent. My two sons, Aaron and Chris were getting excited. They wanted to help in the business. The first year I worked for 2 years with a salary of$75.00 a week was slow, until we got well known. I advertised in and was never laid off. I then applied for a factory the Ann Arbor phone book, but referral is the best job. I wanted to increase my wages. I got a job at way to get work. Later I got a contract with the Chelsea Central Fibre in 1964. It was an easier job University of Michigan doing the floors in the and more money than doing hardwood floors. I family housing and dorms. I began to get a lot of would get laid off from the shop every so often, residential contractors. depending on how car sales were going. I would work for Gilbert Floor Co. when I was laid off; My two sons wanted to go out on their own. We all depending on whether he needed help. worked in harmony. Without their support, it would not be a success. After 17 years, the Chelsea Central Fibre plant closed up and moved out to eliminate the union. It My daughter, Donna graduated from high school moved south in I 980. That sure was a setback. A and cosmetology school. She decided she wanted to lot of people lost their jobs. They were making work with us. I hired her. My wife worked for a about $I 2.00 an hour, with benefits. With no health while, then she retired. My brother-in-law and niece insurance unless you paid for it, it was a very worked for me at one time. Now my nephew and depressing time, not only for me but also for all the brother work for me when needed. other workers and their families. I received unemployment until it was all drawn out and I used It is a family oriented business; that is why we have up all my savings buying health insurance, etc. been so successful. My daughter, Donna, has been working full time with me for about 19 years. She I joined the labor union in Ann Arbor, and spent can do all phases of the work. She also does the about $350.00 hoping to get a steady job, but no sales and public relations and is a great problem luck. I worked about 2 weeks out of a month's time. solver. Some days I would pack my lunch for the day, hoping to get put on a job, only to be sitting around The work gets tough at times, but we have really for half the day and then be sent home. Once home, enjoyed our business. We have met wonderful I would sit on the porch and eat my lunch. people of all walks of life. They say the more people you meet, the more successful you will be. Jobs were not plentiful. So I needed to get a job with some benefits. My brother, Jim, who also lost his job with Chelsea Central Fibre, got a job at Stockbridge Manufacturing. So I applied there as well and was hired. It was a good place to work. Larry and Gary Cornish were the owners. I knew

Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries Boyce Plumbing & Heating, Inc. earning his Master's license. His dad was proud to have his input and expertise which was instrumental Boyce Plumbing & Heating, Inc. was started in in building the business name and reputation. January I 977 by Max Boyce. The goal was to provide service and installation of plumbing and Max retired completely from the plumbing business heating throughout the Stockbridge/Chelsea area and in 1996 and considered himself fortunate to have a beyond. son whose ownership of the business would carry on the family name. In I 966, Max jumped at the opportunity to have a more steady income for his family, so he went to Many new requirements in further education and work for Anderson Plumbing in Lansing. While he licensing procedures have demanded that Scott keep worked there (11 years) he obtained his abreast of new technology in the plumbing and Journeyman's license in 1969 and his Master heating business. Scott has three sons, Ryan, Sean, Plumbing license in I 97 l. and Alex. They have been working with their dad from about the age of9. Working with their dad is a During his I I years of steady employment, he did legacy in which they can each learn the value of both commercial and residential. The experience hard work, honesty and integrity. All are necessary was invaluable and he met many good people as a components in order to maintain the fine reputation result. of Boyce Plumbing and Heating Inc., hopefully passed on for generations to come. In January I 977, Max had reached the conclusion that ifhe ever was to have a business of his own he Jerrold's Fine Quality Flooring had to start now. The time for starting a business was not the most opportune, but with some good In 1991, Jerrold and Lois Bivins took early supplier's cooperation, he decided to take the retirements in order to begin an adventure, now plunge. known as Jerrold's Fine Quality Flooring and Paints.

January of 1977 was a colder' winter than normal They began by renting space in the Lantis strip mall with lots of high winds. Frozen pipes seemed to on M-106. A year later they purchased the make up the majority of his service calls at that time. building(s) at 116 East Main Street, known as Being a home based business; callers would want Watson's Grocery. They also purchased a smaller services at all hours. The "during the night calls" building, which was housing a pet store. were limited to providing heating repairs for the elderly. They were the highest priority along with Lois and Jerrold completely refurbished and brought families with tiny babies. Gradually Max was able up to code these buildings. Everything possible was to build inventory to the point where the suppliers kept in the building's original 1902 state. wou Id drop off fittings, etc., at the shop then def iv er showers, tubs and water closets, at the job site. This The larger building was restored and converted into eliminated some repetitive handling and allowed a complete decoration center. The smaller building more actual time on the job site. was transformed into a Porter Paint Color Center.

Max has 2 sons, Todd and Scott, and a daughter, Over the years they have established themselves as a Paula. When the need arose, Paula would take the reputable business, serving many new clients along phone messages and help in any way she could. the way. Todd and Scott, however, fro m a very early age, began to learn the trade and became their dad's right Jerrold presently serves the home/building improvement needs of Stockbridge and its arm. On weekends the boys earned their spending money and summer time they took turns working surrounding communities. Jerrold's specialty is every other day with their dad. "Getting It Done the Right Way". He has assisted many in transforming their ideas into completed At an early age, Scott showed a real aptitude and projects. interest in working with his hands. He was a quick Stockbridge Bowl & Sparty Victors Bar & Grill study, always looking ahead to see the sequence needed of various installations. Shortly after high Our story begins in the summer of 1994 when our school graduation, he decided to go full time. As family purchased Stockbridge Lanes Lounge from soon as he had his apprentice time in. he wrote for Jim Harbert and Dan Pietras. Our family at the time his Journeymen's license and did the same in

Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries had a bowling center in Dearborn called Pine Tree our mother. She enjoys making daily specials to add Bowl, which our family had owned since 1966. Our variety to our extensive menu. She can cook family had been in the bowling business since 1953. anything you like. Her kraut and stuffed cabbage is Our dad bought his first bowling center in Highland just like mom used to make. One time she got some Park; it was where the Detroit's first televised cement work done for us in exchange for a pan of bowling show was filmed. Then about 1960, our her Stuffed Cabbage, what a deal! Theresa also does father bought into a bowling center in Detroit called catering. One of her regular clients is the Liops Millet's Recreation. Our father sold his part of the Club. business to purchase Pine Tree Bowl. The day after the deal was done, Millet's burned down. Theresa is also known as the Avon lady. She has been selling Avon for years and often has specials Our family of nine brothers and sisters owns the that help her be a top seller. Theresa is also known bowling center. Mike and Theresa operate the as Stella, a nickname she received from the Knights center. We decided to name the place Stockbridge of Columbus bowlers from Pine Tree. She likes to Bowl and in 2008, we named the lounge Sparty organize bus trips. In the past year she took us to a Victors Bar and Grill. That gave us a theme for the Tiger game, a Red Wing game and a casino trip. center. Being located halfway between East Lansing and Ann Arbor, we thought it would be cool to go Mike organizes and does the league's secretary work with a MSU and UM theme. The Sparty represents for most of our leagues. He is also responsible for MSU and Victors represents the school we all hail. the general operation, keeping everything running We put up alumni boards so people that attended smoothly. He often serves on the Board of the either school can sign. Jon Fillmore got to sign both Stockbridge Area Chamber of Commerce of which since he has a degree from each. he was a founding member. He also spends time on the Board of Greater Michigan Bowling Center Our bar is not very big, but every Saturday night we Owners Association and is currently convention co­ fill it up with singers for Karaoke night. We have an chairrnan. Mike serves on the greater Jackson outdoor bar that is called the Gazebo. We added a USBC as a youth representative and is past­ fire pit the first summer we operated it. Then we put president of the Jackson Bowling Counsel. He in a nice sandy volleyball courts. Efforts to make coaches the high school bowling team and proudly the volleyball court a fun option for people fell short took the girls team to MHSAA Finals last season. and we let nature take over. The summer of2009 with help from Mason's Dirtworks we put up a new When we first started to run the bowling center our, fence. We also replaced the fire pit with a beautiful · employees helped us get to know the community. new one. We added Com Hole Courts, a fun game to The workers were the Salyer family, Karen Bishop play. It's like a safe game of horseshoes. A player and Juanita Medina. Juanita worked with us for tosses a 16 oz bag of com onto a 2'by 4' piece of many years. Over the years we had employees come wood with a hole in it. There you have it summer and go; most of them were pretty good but some fun. were mistakes. A bunch of boys who worked for us went on to serve their country in the war zones in In the bowling center we extended the floor to the the Middle East. The boys are Tom Heiman Jr., lanes using benches we took from Pine Tree. Matt Meir, Joel Meir and Anthony Chapman. Our Booths were added next to the approaches giving us current employees could be called long time more floor space, which is valuable in our small employees. They are Kathy Chapman, Pam Baker, building. Automatic scoring from a small company Linda Minger and Mandie Pidd. I can't close this named 12 Strike was added around 2001. It's a paragraph without mentioning that we once had a simple system with an instant replay feature that bartender named Chez Whiz. We are grateful for many systems don't have. We installed lane shield the service our employees give us. over our lanes. It's the softest surface you can bowl on allowing your ball to hook more. It's a pretty I would like to mention a lot of our league bowlers cool system to bowl on and we can put signs under that have bowled here but rm sorry I 'm only going them to wish happy birthdays or other messages. to mention a few. We have Madeline Hannewald who just turned 90 this past season. We all love her. One of the best aspects of our bowling center is the Reid Hartsuff and Steve Pendall have been bowling food. Not only is it good, some items are available with us since we took over. We've had only one as long as we are open and that's 2 AM some nights. 300 game bowled since we took over. Nate Breijak Theresa loves to cook, a talent she inherited from who bowled with his father, Matt, bowled it in our

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Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries Wednesday Night Men's League. We would like to The current employees are Bruce Klingbeil, Kim thank our league bowlers for supporting us over the Heibel, Curtis Fletcher and Corben Ransom. years. In 2009 I opened another autocare center called Country !~tals Floral a~.d Gifts Autocare Il and it is located behind the NAPA Auto COUNTRY PETALS r Parts. My oldest son, Cory Landis, runs the facility and is the only technician at that location.

Dragonfyre Design Studio

artist's corner in Stockbridge. Our store opened November 7, 2009 on West Main in the do'Wntown ...-.~~ business district. Dragonfyre offers custom hand­ made wedding and prom gowns, costumes, clothing, accessories, jewelry, alterations performed in store, hand embroidery and beading. They carry jewelry making items, beads and sewing supplies, as well as · ' ~ · ~= offering classes and individual lessons. Local artists and crafters are welcome to bring their items in to Back: Karen Haywood, Patty Young. Front: Erica selJ to the public. There are so many beautiful . Young, Jake, Sara Young Dancer things people make and they put so much effort into On August 14, 2007 Country Petals Floral and Gifts what they do. Christine and Corey wanted to offer opened its doors for the first time. The main goal of these persons a space to showcase their work. the business is to provide unique gifts and floral Years ago the building was H. M. Collings & Sons arrangements for any occasion. Country Petals is automobile dealership selling De Soto and Plymouth located in the downtown business district on East automobiles. Main Street. The owners are mother and daughter, Patty Young and Sara Young Dancer. However Dragonfrye has experienced a lot of support from running a store takes an entire family effort with people in the community who are excited about this Erica Young, sister, and Karen Haywood, shop. We are providing many costumes for the grandmother, rounding out the team. Customers FireBelles' fashion show, sponsoring the traveling will also be greeted by Jake the golden retriever sideshow and making the gown for the bride for the mascot of the store. Flowers, plants, balloons, candy traditional wedding during the 175th celebration. candles, cards, jewelry and unique gifts for any occasion can be found at Country Petals. Collins Electric

Certified Tractor and Auto Repair and NAPA My grandfather, Herbert Collins, was a pioneer in Auto parts the electrical business in Stockbridge. In 1925, when Consumers Power Co. (now Consumers Hello, my name is Norman D. Landis and I own Energy) began to provide power in Stockbridg~, Certified Tractor and Auto Repair Inc. in Gregory, Herbert worked for it as a meter reader, collecting NAPA Autocare II in Stockbridge and NAPA Auto bills and later as a line repairman. During this time Parts in Stockbridge. he taught himself wiring methods and wired many of the local homes. He also had an appliance store in In 1956 my parents, William and Beulah Landis, Stockbridge. While his family was growing up, the moved our family to a farm in Gregory. In 1980 I children all worked in the business at one time or opened a small repair shop on the furm. I had one another. When WWII came, he worked in a defense employee, my cousin, Wade Corser. We had one plant and later came back to the store with his bay to work from. I have since added nine more brother, Loren. bays and six more employees that include two of my sons, Ben and Jason Landis; daughter, Amy My father, David, bad grown up in the electrical Monroe; Greg Pena, Eddie Abbey and Katie trade and after high school attended the Ford Trade Peterson. School in Dearborn. He married Margaret Field in 1941 and lived in Inkster until serving in the Navy in In 1988 I opened NAPA Auto Parts in Stockbridge. the South Pacific, at which time, my mother moved

Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries back to Stockbridge. At the end of the war, David liked by her clients. She encourages a client to "step returned to Stockbridge and became a local electrical outside the box" and try a new look. contractor. During the l960's and 1970's, we wired many of the commercial buildings in town. Laura Schlaffhas been a stylist for 18 years. She has seen trends come and go. The best thing about I started working with my father in 1964, earning styling hair is knowing you made that person look r my journeyman's license in 1974 and master's in and feel great that day. In turn, that is a great feeling 1978. I expanded into the heating and air for Laura and it is why she loves the industry. conditioning. When my father passed away in 2000, I continued on the family tradition. My son. Chad, Ginger Morse has a style of her own. She loves joined the business and I am hopeful I have passed being a mom of 3 daughters. She chose to style hair on to him my enthusiasm in carrying on the family and it was the best decision for her. tradition. Stockbridge has always been my community and I have been proud to have been a part of its many accomplishments and hope to be a part of those in the future.

Focus On U

Focus On U strives to give good quality work at affordable prices and still maintain a professional, upbeat, friendly and fun atmosphere. The salon is located in the Lantis strip mall. Besides styling hair, it also provides pedicures, waxing and tanning. The first location started in 1997 on South M-52.

The owners are Peggy and Rick Kayholm. They have been married for 23 years. Peggy has been a stylist for 39 years. She can still keep up with the Howlett Tree Farm younger generation with her attitude and work ethic. She loves to transform a person with a great cut and Howlett Tree Farm is located 2 miles north of some dimensional color. A two-time cancer Stockbridge on M-52 on land first purchased by survivor, she has a passion for life. German Weeks from the United States of America in 1836. In 1976, Emil G. and Victoria Wolf sold Rick is not your typical nail tech. He always wears the property to Rick and Molly Howlett. The 35 shorts, year round. While tending to your nails, he acre farm was a choose and cut farm for many years is captivating you with his adventures in fishing, with the main species of trees being Scotch and shrimping, or baseball or umpiring or whatever is on White pine and Norway spruce. his mind. In 1988, an additional 34 acres was added to the Jen Delabye is a familiar face in the salon. From the farm. As customer preferences have changed, the time she was a little girl, she has "assisted" her Howletts now grow and sell White, Blue, Norway, mom, as a hairdresser. By the age of 14, she was Serbian and Myer's spruce and Douglas, Canaan, been the receptionist in our salon. She completed Concolor, and Korean fir. For customer her dream to become a licensed cosmetologist in convenience and to ensure freshness, the farm­ July 2009. Jen is a highly trained and skilled grown trees are cut daily. They can be drilled for hairdresser. She will take the time to listen to a stands and are shaken and baled. The farm also sells client's needs and follow through with exactly what tree stands, fresh wreaths and grave blankets. that person in her chair wants. Jen's motto is "all you need is love". Tonya's Salon

Amber Ruttan has a word above her mirror that We are located in the basement of our home at 5621 sums her up perfectly, "fabulous". She has a very South M 52. My niece, Jessica Wiley and myself, laid-back, fun-spirited and talented lifestyle. She Tonya Wiley offer services such as haircuts, perms, manages to keep balance in her life, raising her color, hi-lites, updo's and waxing. I told my young family and being a workaholic. She is well husband to build a salon in our basement and I would bring the customers. It worked perfectly.

Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries Muzzin Construction Luanne's Hair Shoppe

Tony Muzzin began his business in 2006. Working After attending the Career Center in Mason, I began in construction for many years, he decided to offer my career working at the Hudson's Dept. Hair Salon his skills locally. He has built new pole barns and in the Lansing Mall. Six months later I had the updated homes. He has repaired storm damage, opportunity to be transferred to the Hudson's Hair replaced siding, roofing and masonry. Salon at the Meridian Mall to have a closer drive. Within a few months of the transfer, the store Paul Dobos, DDS unfortunately closed. I then began working for Dick and Bea Parker at Hairstyles by Richard in Holt. Dr. Paul Dobos bought his practice from retiring During that time, I attended a one-week intense dentist, Dr. John Van Tiem in July 2007. Prior to session of personal training at Bruno's School of owning his own practice, Dr. Dobos worked as an Hair Design in Toronto, Canada. associate dentist in Chelsea, Manchester and Jackson. He grew up in the downriver Detroit area I quit hairstyling to work with my family in farming and enlisted in the Navy after high school. His five and the construction business. Once working in an years of active service included training in weather office setting, I realized I truly enjoyed working observing and forecasting. He was stationed on an with people and hairstyling. aircraft carrier, U.S.S. Midway, which had its homeport in Japan. He also had duty at the Naval I worked with Marge Minix at the Hair Affair. I Air Station Willow Grove in Pennsylvania. started looking to relocate nearer to downtown Stockbridge to benefit my clients. That's when Dr. Dobos received his Doctor of Dental Surgery Luanne's Hair Shoppe originated in one room across degree from the University of Michigan School of from the Post Office at the back of what is now the Dentistry. His practice of dentistry in Stockbridge dental office. We found the house that the business started with a total revamp of the office spaces. All is currently located in. It was convenient for both rooms were redone to make the office more inviting my business and raising our family. to patients and ergonomic to staff. New equipment was purchased and installed, including an ultrasonic At times it has been a challenge while working from cleaner, electrosurgery unit, two delivery systems, home, raising my boys and hurdling all of the life two patient chairs, implant kit, digital x-ray sensor events that have been thrown my way. There would and software, tree new x-ray machines, computers in not have been a way I could have done this without each room, intraoral camera and digital patient the loyalty and assistance of my wonderful clients records. In essence, the practice was brought into and family. This all could not have been successful the 21st Century. without your help. I wish now to send a Huge THANK - YOU To Everyone. Luanne Heinz Dr. Dobos and his staff are like-minded and enjoy providing "uncompromising dentistry". The office Messner's Used Auto Parts staff includes manager, Paulette of Gregory; Registered Dental Hygienists, Lynne of Dexter and My great-grandparents Messners bought the land in Shannon of Stockbridge; and Registered Dental 1926. It was handed down to my grandfather Assistant, Andrea of Stockbridge. The small staff Chester Messner Sr. in the 1950's. When my father, has a combined 63 years of providing dental care. Chester Messner Jr. acquired the property in 1967, he started the parts business. Now his daughter, Since their childhood, Dr. Dobos and his wife, Joanna and her husband, Robert Golliher, are Cheryl, have known and loved rural living. His running the business since the summer of2009. My grandparents lived on Sugarloaf Lake and her family father opened a used auto parts in Coleman, Florida. had a cottage on the same lake for three generations. Today they live with their sons in the Waterloo area White Oak Dental

Dr. Dobos, his family and staff would like to The schoolhouse that is now the home of White Oak congratulate the people of Stockbridge on our Dental started as a one-.room schoolhouse, originally town's 1751h anniversary; and specifically, "We located at the comer Oakley Road and M-52. In thank those who are patients for placing their trust in 1975, John and Linda Decker had the Lowe School our care." moved to their property to be used as an antique/gift shop.

Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries In 1983, Philip and Ruth Dahl purchased the farm to medical setting could serve the community in a r open his dental practice in the old schoolhouse. The meaningful, positive way. We were struck by the practice was growing and the office needed to community spirit and support here. expand. In 2004 five operatories and a new laboratory were added to the schoolhouse. It was Sydney Beckwith M.D. purchased the parcel from r the intent to try to maintain the look and feel of the Myrta Ramsdell for a clinic. The Presbyterian old school-house, while updating the facility. The Church used the building as a Sunday school. Later, original chalkboards are still in the waiting room and Dr. Carolyn Cook operated her veterinary practice are enjoyed by many of our patients and their here. children. The clinic held an open house in September 2009 Jouraish M. Daoud, DMD purchased the practice in that drew a wonderful gathering of people. ~t r 2007. Dr. Daoud had been Dr. Dahl's associate Christmastime, our clients joined the clinic in since February 2005. It was renamed White Oak helping to support Angel Food Mission. In the Dental because of the beautiful white oak tree at the spring of2010, we hosted a table at the Festival of entrance to our drive. Tables. What a wonderful evening to experience!

As we become more involved in the community and our clients, we are convinced more than ever that we made a good decision to purchase and run Stockbridge Animal Clinic. Our mission here is to help provide the highest quality of life for the longest possible time for our patients. We are fool­ lowing our passion of helping ensure that pets and their owners derive the maximum benefit from the bond they share.

• ~J = ~; We strive to provide this level of care in a welcoming atmosphere that emphasiz.es client Richard Cox Carpentry Inc. education, preventive medicine, and progressive diagnostic capabilities. We understand and Richard is originally from Sark, a small farming and appreciate the history of Stockbridge and we are fishing island between England and France. He was honored to now be a part of that history. It is taught the traditional hand tool methods of carpentry noteworthy that the building that currently houses from an early age. After many years of training, he the clinic has always been a medical facility. We set up his own business creating custom cabinetry are glad to sustain that tradition and look forward to and furniture. Richard has a love for historic serving this area for many years to come. buildings. Upon moving to Stockbridge in 2002, he was drawn to the old creamery building. When the ProPolymers building came up for sale in 2008, Richard was able to purchase it from Jack Owen. In September 2007 ProPolymers Corp. acquired the building formerly owned by Sycamore Creek Co. Now the goal is to restore the building, keeping its Started in 1996 by Peter Unger, ProPolymers is a integrity and charm intact as much as possible. custom compounder of plastic resins and specializes Richard truly feels blessed to be able to create his in high temperature thermoplastics. ProPolymers work in such a unique building and hopes to enjoy extrudes and produces plastic raw material which it the work in progress for many years to come. supplies to plastic molding companies. Peter Unger is a Material Science Engineer graduating from the University of Michigan and the sole owner of ProPolymers. The Stockbridge building is our only Stockbridge Animal Clinic facility and we are looking forward to growing with Stockbridge Animal Clinic began when Thomas and being a part of the Stockbridge community. Armstrong and his wife visited the area in 2009. We Ralph's Gun Shop, Inc. toured Dr. Carolyn Cook's facility. We could envision the building alive with clients and their Ralph's Gun Shop Inc. was started in 1976 by Ralph pets. We knew our caring staff in a progressive (Buster} D. Myer. I grew up in the Gregory/

Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries Pinckney area. I served 4 proud years in the U.S. and making room for a new Shell gas station in front Marine Corps and moved to Denver, Colorado to of the convenience store. fulfill a long time dream. I attended formal schooling at Colorado School of Trades. I moved Today the convenience store has been remodeled to back home to Michigan in 1976. I started work at create a grocery market. It services the community NSK Bearings in Ann Arbor. In 1977, I married with "fill in" groceries and fresh produce and quality Carol Schoonover. We have 3 children: Jeremy, Shell gasoline, in a clean and friendly shopping Amy and Beth. environment. We are proud to be a part of the Stockbridge community, and enjoy and appreciate When I opened my shop, I started out small, serving our loyal customers. operated only evenings and weekends in my basement when I was not working as a tool and die Planet Video maker in Ann Arbor. When my plant closed in 2007, I was able to retire. I devoted all my time to In 1999, the property at 875 South Clinton Street my gun shop. I now operate in a large barn. I was developed, and Planet Video relocated from slowly increased my breadth of service and sales West Main Street. Planet Video is in its 25th year of over the years to include Custom Hot Bluing, operation, and the Tin Roof ice Cream & Family making stocks, refinishing, cleaning, mounting Fun Center are owned and operated by the grand­ scopes, special order sales of all types of sporting children of Paul and Jennie Spadafore. goods, firearms transfers, C.P.L. classes, general gunsmithing, and light machining of small parts. Paul and Jennie Spadafore moved to Stockbridge as really enjoy meeting with and assisting all the newlyweds in July 1926. They went into business at sportsmen and women of the area. I am always 219 Clinton Street, selling candy and fruit. This ready to offer my knowledge and skill in business was purchased from Mr. and Mrs. George gunsmithing. Field, and the following year they bought the building from Casper Todaro. Many changes were McDonald's Of Stockbridge made over the years, including an ice cream parlor and confectionery store, where people of all ages In September of 1997, a groundbreaking ceremony enjoyed socializing. Paul, Jennie and their 3 was held at the Industrial Park on Bird Drive for the children. Josephine, Paul and Frank ran the business new McDonald's. Approximately 45 days later, the and lived above the store until 1944. owners/operators, Jim and Pat Karns and their son, Scott, opened the restaurant on November 24, 1997. Later a beer and liquor license was bought and the In May 1997, they also opened a McDonald's in store became known as Spadafore's Party Store Leslie. They employ approximately 35 to 40 people, Gradually Paul and Frank took over the business, including managers and crew for each restaurant. expanding the party store into a supermarket known There are some employees who have been with us as Spadafore's Food Market, Inc. After being in for over 10 years. business on Clinton for 59 years, the Spadafores sold in 1985 to Walco Foods - IGA. November 2004 saw the remodeling of the restaurant to satisfy the increasing needs of a Around 1960, Paul Spadafore Jr. bought the building growing community and businesses. The Karns located at 111 West Main Street. Prior to that, it had would like to congratulate the Stockbridge area on served as the Post Office and a warehouse for its l 75th anniversary. Dancer & Co. Since purchasing the building, it has been a pool hall, slot car race track, storage, a Stockbridge Shell Market restaurant run by Betty Oakley Kunzelman, then by the family Don Coakley, a video store and tanning Stockbridge Shell was formed after Wakeland Oil salon and a dance studio. The family now consists Company of Owosso purchased the land and an of Lisa and Larry Ostrander, Scott and Nikki existing business located at 390 W. Main from Brian Spadafore and Bryan and Stacie Spadafore. Mason in 1997. The land included two parcels; one fronting Main Street with an older building that was Mary Kay Cosmetics used over the years as a gas station, floral shop and pizza restaurant. The second parcel (behind the "Hi Neighbor!" I am Jennifer McClure and I am a older building) featured a modem convenience store sales director for Mary Kay Cosmetics. My office is and Laundromat. In 1998, the old gas station was my home. Tawnia McCalla and I have enjoyed demolished opening up the parcel from Main Street tremendous success over the years. This summer we

Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries will pick up our 4th free company car. Mary Kay Dragline Works offers the best in personalized skin care for all skin types and needs, color cosmetics, fragrances and For 28 years, Dennis Marshall has been providing body care products, all backed by personal service customers with beautiful ponds. His son, Brandon, from a trained beauty professional and a I 00% joined him in the business and has operated an satisfaction guarantee. You may enjoy our products excavator for eight years. by scheduling a personal appointment, scheduling a party with friends, shopping via a catalog or online. Dennis learned the needed skills by working for We also offer fund-raising programs and a gift­ several local contractors. Leland McConnell giving service. My personal mission is "changing convinced Dennis to start his own business and sold the world, one face at a time". his machines to Dennis. He said that by the early 1990's, he had dug 330 ponds. He has since lost Start It Up Auto Electric count but estimates digging close to 1,000 podds. Dragline Works also cleans ponds that need We are a small. after-hours business that rebuilds resloping after soil and debris start to fill them in. starters, alternators and generators for autos, trucks, He offers land clearing and uses connections to set boats, farming and industrial machinery. Steve and up fountains and landscaping. The largest pond he Gail Hom are the owners of the business, located at has dug was ten acres wide. One of his techniques is their home on Brogan Road. digging a pond around an existing area to trees, leaving an island. Steve began learning the business through his high school co-op program in 1979, when he started He estimates that sixty percent of the work is working in a family owned shop in Ypsilanti. He residential and forty percent government projects. helped launch a business in a garage in Milan and Dennis says be grew up around Stockbridge and bis one in New Hudson that dealt mostly with heavy wife is from a large local family. They enjoy people duty and industrial applications. and chatting with the many repeat customers.

Steve always wanted to have his own rebuilding Creative Learning shop. When the family moved to Stockbridge in 2000, he felt the large farming community and rural In 2005, Linda Inman established Creative Leaming. area presented the perfect opportunity for Start It With more and more children being diagnosed with Up. ADD or ADHD and even autism, it became necessary to find a way to help these children Ransom's Food Center succeed in academic settings. We are goal oriented and provide one on one tutoring in your home. All June 1, 1971, John Ransom purchased the building children as well as adults learn; however, some of and land from Arthur Wilde. The business was them learn differently. purchased from Felpausch Food Center. This store is a family business involving very long workdays. At Creative Leaming we use a program consisting of John and Leona's five children, Peggie, Pattie, multisensory techniques that are specifically Kenneth, Pennie, and Kyle, all worked in the store. designed to increase ability to encode, decode, and retain information. The brain gives us a selection of Ransom's held a legal weekly sale of raffle tickets neuron pathways that aids us in imprinting our for prizes and admission to the Stockbridge school minds. Using visual (optical sensory), auditory games. The raffle lasted one year and helped fund (hearing), tactile (touch), and kinesthetic (large the 7th, gth and 9th grade basketball programs when muscle movement), we are able to help children the Stockbridge Community Schools cut sports excel in academics. This bas a direct effect on self­ programs for financial reasons. esteem arid social skills. At Creative Leaming, we can find just the right tools and the right creative The store has sponsored golf teams. They sold food way to keep your children interested in the process at a discount to the Day Care Center that operated in oflearning. CONGRATULATIONS TO THE the Stockbridge United Methodist church. This STOCKBRIDGE COMMUNITY ON THEIR l 75rn program was the forerunner of the early childhood ANNIVERSARY. programs now operated and greatly expanded by the Stockbridge Community School system. Ransom's 39-year support for the non-profit groups is well known in this community.

Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries Garnett's Beauty Shop paperwork and finds Kevin his loads. We haul general freight and produce across the Midwest, Garnett Puckett - Harooh has operated her beauty south and southeast. shop out of her home since 1967. I graduated from select Beauty Academy in Jackson in 1966. I still Munitb Mech. LLC work part time in my shop. I have met some wonderful people and made great friends. Richard Tisch began his business in 1998 in the Munith area. He moved from Novi, where he had Never Dull been in business for 20 years. They are a licensed and insured heating and air conditioning contractor. Gary Toler remembers his father sharpening knives. He is located on Sayers Road in Munith. This gave Gary an idea to open a mobile sharpening service called Never Dull. He will tackle everything Munith Mech. offers service and repair on all tnakes from minor sharpening to major sharpening of and models of gas or oil fired furnaces and all types knives with chips or a broken point. Cleavers, of residential or commercial air conditioning hatchets, axe blades, chisels, mower blades are all in systems. They also provide refrigeration services a day's work. He has a number ofregular clients. and equipment, featuring Goodman Products.

Gary advises the various farmers markets to have Richard Tisch enjoys living and working in this and people drop off tools, scissors, knives, lawn or surrounding communities. garden items. While they shop, he will sharpen the items for them. He has a seasonal stall in the Adiska Family Dental Okemos and Howell Farmers Market. He has been at the year round Ann Arbor Farmers Market for two Dr. Gary Adiska opened the Adiska Family Dental years. Kathy takes the orders, wraps the sharpened in 1986. With his wife, Becky, the dental practice object and collects the money. They enjoy people became well established. In May 2005, their and chatting with the many repeat customers. daughter Dr. Heather Adiskajoined the staff.

Big Chuck's Pizza Plus Horatio N. Forbes built the building at 100 West Main Street in the 1900's. Mr. Forbes entered the Chuck Minix and Lezlie Jude Fowler opened up Big township in 1836, buying a farm in section 26. Chuck's Pizza Plus in April 2004. Lezlie was Twelve years later he moved into Stockbridge to working at Jackson Pediatrics and had been there for pursue other endeavors. The building has sold 11 years. Chuck was driving a dump truck, clothing and shoes, a butcher shop, an antique shop, freelancing, working on different jobs. Not his idea a hardware store and the Town Crier office. of fun. Chuck had previous pizz.eria/party store experience. Many months went into opening Big Don Hannewald Construction Chuck's. Lezlie continued to work while Chuck Don Hannewald Construction has been serving the started working on the building to get it up to code. community since 1971. In 1975, I opened Tree-0- Equipment had to be purchased. Chuck worked Lumber (which was formerly the Stockbridge long and hard to get all of the inspections, plans and Lumber Co.). In 1988, I expanded services to all that goes into opening a new business. We had to open early when the "Town Crier" announced the include custom sawing, turning logs into lumber, and custom millwork, Quality and honesty are the wrong date. key ingredients to 39 years of success. I would like We scrambled to make a success of opening night. to express my humble and continued thanks to the Thanks to the community for making our pizza place entire community for their support. a success. Lezlie's son Jesse has been with us since Kitley's Custom Exhaust and Auto the beginning. He is now attending Culinary Arts School in Novi. Sean Osborn has been with us for 5 The business was started by Ken Kitley in February years. 2009. Kitley's is family run with Ken Jr. and Dalton Wbip-N-Ride Trucking LLC Kitley as employees. Kevin and Sherry Morehouse of Stockbridge stated Kitley's is the fifth generation of the Kitley family a small trucking business in 2005. Kevin drives and to own a business in Munith since my great-great maintains the truck and Sherry does all the grandfather, Charles Crane. He owned a mercantile

Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries and funeral home, whose name can still be seen on you are already doing what we do at FHTM, you the remaining original building in Munith. My just are not getting paid to do it. great-grandfather, Oliver Kitley, owned a barber ship, my grandfather Kenneth Kitley started K & D Since the founding of Fortune Hi-Tech Marketing in Kitley Excavation and Sanitation, which is now 200 I, the company has proven itself a leader among owned by my Uncle Dewayne Kitley. network marketing companies. FGTM has thrived by the leadership of experienced network marketers. Kitley specializes in custom exhaust bending; brakes, suspension, tires, welding, fabrication, and Paul Orberson, native of Lexington, KY, is President RV repair. and Founder. In 1990, Paul found a new financial opportunity in a small start-up network marketing Bramlett Hardware and Heating Co. company. He revolutionized the industry by helping turn that business into a multi-billion dollar, Pl!blicly Bramlett Hardware and Heating Co., originally traded NYSE company. Retiring prior to his fortieth Howlett Hardware, is located in downtown Gregory. birthday, Paul walked away from that company after The original building. which still houses part of he had earned more money in a shorter amount of Bramlett Hardware, was moved from Unadilla to time than anyone had before in the network Gregory in 1885 after the Grand Trunk Railroad marketing industry history. Ultimately, Paul came through Gregory. In 1894, T. Henry and Fred decided work proved to be more rewarding than Howlettt established the successful hardware that retirement remained in the same family for over 112 years. Brothers Tom and Dan Howlett ran the store for Tom Mills, CEO, believed helping start FHTM many years while C. Jack Potts did for the remaining would be one way for him to help other people 30. achieve their financial goals and to give back to an industry that had been so good to his family. The family owned hardware maintains its old fashioned charm with the original door and creaky One thing that sets FEITM apart from other network hardwood floors and decorative added antiques and marketing companies is the list of product and vintage items. It is still the place to go for those service offerings. It offers many tier-one, brand hard to find items such as cast iron cookware, name services and products that are recognized and crockery, and tin signs as well as modem tools, trusted by consumers. The company strives to power tools, paint, candles and greeting cards. provide a mix of products and services which reach beyond a specific industry, allowing consumers to A visit to the store is like taking a step back in time. pick and choose which products and services meet their individual needs.

Entrepreneurship is what it is all about. FHTM is a relationship marketing company. It is an opportunity for people who want to better themselves in a financial way. FHTM provides financial benefits at many different levels. Ifyou resolve to make a change and take your personal and family finances in a better direction, you can find it Fortune Hi-Tech Marketing with this business. Janet Long and Luanne Heinz are local contacts. We are loyal consumers to Corporate America; hence, the dollars previously budgeted for advertisements are now being allocated directly to us, as a consumer, to create loyal customers through the Fortune Hi-Tech Marketing offers.

Ifyou use a cell phone, watch TM, have the internet, exercise, make a long distance call, take nutritional supplements, travel, care about the health of your pet, golf, go out to eat, or worry about your identity,

Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries American Legion Mackinder-Glenn Post 510 Post 510, Stockbridge, MI wants you to know who we are and that we are here to sen-e the Veterans and residents of our wonderful community. We have a long bb-rory of being a force for mutual helpfulnes.s and patriotism and would like you to join us as a member or as a guest at our numerous patriotic and enjoyable events. Please contact us at 517-851 -8+15 onisit our wcl>-site at www.mackinder-glenn510.org for more infunnatioa.

The American Legion

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BUSINESS HOURS

MONDAY-FRIDAY 9 TO 5

SATURDAY 9T01

SUNDAY BY APPOINTMENT

Wedlick's Shoe Store in Munith

Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries Munith Mane Event we hope to continue to be a part of the Stockbridge community for many more. Munith Mane Event Hair Salon at 9055 M-106 in Munith opened for business in 1979. We are a family Tulip Tree Gardens oriented, casual group of"girls" all from the Stockbridge area. Our stylists are Lori Mays, Krysti Beverly and Glen Allen opened Tulip Tree Gardens in (Gauss) Bunce, and Angela (Bailey) Stolarz. 1993, after Bev earned a degree in horticulture from Michigan State University. Bev was the one with the We offer many hair care services, including multiple green thumb, while Glen helped with the construction color techniques, penning, cutting, styling and special and maintenance of the greenhouse. He also sold occasion styling. We've been very fortunate to serve Christmas trees. The business opened with a 96'xl6' many generations of families through the years. greenhouse filled with annuals and a few perennials. Shrubs and vegetables were also available for purchase. We'd like to thank all our customers and friends for their loyalty over the years. You've made our job very In 1994, a smaller greenhouse was added to over-winter rewarding, and that's why we're here. the perennials. Bev kept studying horticulture on her own and was inspired to try something new after a trip K & D Kitley Sanitation to Niagara on the Lake. While there she got the idea for container planters as well as hanging baskets and wanted Kenneth and Dewayne Kitley established K & D Kitley to present them with fully-grown plants. Sanitation in 1955 in Munith, Michigan. The business started out pumping septic tanks only. They started with First one daughter, Laura Morehouse, then a second, a 1946 Dodge truck purchased from Fred Randolph and Rachel Camp, began helping their parents with the a Chore Boy vacuum pump purchased from Howard business. In 2000, after adding a third greenhouse Harkness. In 1965, they started doing excavating and where planters and baskets were filled, Laura and hauling of sand and gravel. Rachel bought the business from their parents and became partners. A large, multi-purpose greenhouse In 1973, they bought Moffat Sanitation. Kenneth was constructed behind the others to house annuals, retired in 1976, with Dewayne's son Chuck filling his perennials and mixed containers and baskets. position in the business. Dewayne' s son-in-law, Clark, joined the team in 1988. Dewayne's wife, Connie, has Rachel sells flowers and vegetables at the Brighton been the bookkeeper for 40 years. They have weathered Farmers' Market, and the greenhouses are the site for many ups and downs in this line of business, but potting classes each spring. Laura's husband, Kim, continue to serve the community. Over the years, they takes care of electrical, plumbing, and maintenance have sponsored many sport teams and bowling teams. K issues at Tulip Tree. & D Kitley Sanitation is the only full-service company in the area, as they install, clean and repair septic Beverly and Glen Allen remain active at Tulip Tree, systems. whether it is maintaining the greenhouses, starting seedlings in their home, or visiting with customers. Rob's Pizza T & R Lawn Service Rob's Pizza has been serving the Stockbridge community since 1981. Rob's has had a tradition of T & R Lawn Service has been in the Gregory area for I 0 serving great pizza and helping local organizations. We years. Owned and operated by Teny and Robin have always taken great interest in supporting our local Scurlock, we provide lawn service for the surrounding high school athletes as well as the area arts. We have areas, including Ingham and Livingston counties. We also taken pride in providing youth employment specialize in complete lawn service, lawn cutting, opportunities. Rob's Pizza has employed hundreds of trimming and seasonal clean-ups for commercial and local high school students over the years, giving them residential properties. We pride ourselves in the detail their first opportunity to gain valuable work experience. of our work. If you are in need of a lawn service, please Rob's Pizza has enjoyed success these many years, and call 734-395-8782 or email tr [email protected] for a free estimate.

Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries Rod Munsell's Collision Repair tell. 140 Main Street was purchased by me, Dianne Nedroscik, in November of2003. At that time, High Rod Munsell is a 1975 graduate of Stockbridge High Cotton Mercantile was occupying the store front. Over School and one of the first auto body program graduates the shop were the beginnings of an apartment that I had of the then new Capital Area Career Center. As of April finished and in which I now reside. There are two 1, 2010, Rod Munsell's Collision Repair moved into a apartments in the back of the building that have been new state-of-the-art collision facility on Doyle Road in occupied since long before I arrived. Gregory. We specialize in the repair of deer collision accidents and handle all collision related damages, In 2004, Main Street Emporium was opened part time as frame straightening and auto glass replacement. an antique shop. I moved from a Victorian home to this small apartment, so I had much to sell. I also worked Gregory Market part time in Brighton, which turned into a full-t!J:ne job. Because of this, after two years as an antique shop it was The Samona family purchased Tom's Market in Gregory closed down, and the antiques were auctioned down in about 5 years ago. It is now called the Gregory Market. Momoe, Michigan. One year later, I was laid off, so We, the Samona family, are enjoying the beautiful that is where Main Street Emporium began as a resale country atmosphere, as we are used to living and doing shop. business in the city. The Samona family would like to thank the community for their kindness and for Built in the early l 890's, this old building was used as welcoming us into the community. The people here the ol' General Store. It was later purchased by Mr. have made us feel like family. Howard Marshall from Plainfield, and he continued the general store with a few updates from that time period. Centerless Rebuilders, Inc. He sold clothing, shoes, wallpaper, yard goods and CRI was formerly Steiger Engineering, Inc., started by groceries. Later, his son, Ed, took over the business for brothers William "Mike" and Scott Steiger on M-106 in seven years and then sold the building to George Rob, Munith in 1995. They established their business in who continued the tradition. Munith for a couple of reasons, one being the fact that Since then, different businesses have come and gone. It Mike's wife, Lauri Mays, grew up in the area, and her was once a Dollar Store, The Water Guy, and High brother owns the property where the business is located. Cotton Mercantile. If you know of any other businesses Another reason is the small town environment. The that were in this old building, stop by and share your company is a full-service engineering finn taking a knowledge with me. I would love to chat and get to concept from a customer, engineering and designing it, know you. manufacturing it, and producing it. One machine designed by Mike finish-grinds metal components used Main Street Emporium is open Tuesday through in air conditioners, taking off precisely .00004 of an Saturday, from 11 AM to 7 PM. There are 257 inch. consignors bringing in clothing, jewelry, shoes, baby items, furniture, kitchen items, tools, books, musical Steiger Engineering, Inc., is currently a second location instruments, and even the kitchen sink. There are also ofCRI, based in New Haven, Michigan. Corey Gauss DVD rentals at MSE, supplied by Videos To Go. and Mike Gregory are long-term employees and Nathan Saturday rentals don't have to be returned until Tuesday Conti is the engineer. Mike Steiger is involved with because it is closed Sunday and Monday. So come visit both plants. The Munith location specializes in and browse. You may find just the treasure you've been mechanical and electrical engineering, machine building looking for! with robotic integration, producing parts handling automation and replacement parts for centerless Stockbridge Collision grinders. The plant is busy six days a week. Chris Pelton took ownership of Stockbridge Collision in Main Street Emporium Resale Shop February of2008 in the former Glenn's Chevrolet on North Clinton Street. If only the walls could talk at Main Street Emporium in Gregory, they would have so much history and stories to

Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries The shop performs high-quality collision repair, As a result, we've gained many wholesale closeout detailing, frame straightening, and restoration of contacts. motorcycles. Employees are Morgan McCalla and Chris' daughter, Whitney. Son, Ryan, worked until he Dave is a graduate of Maple Valley High School in recently joined the Navy. Chris says, "I am from a small Vermontville and has been living in Gregory for almost town and enjoy being in a small town. Come and see 20 years. He has 38 years of retail experience and looks us!" forward to your visit. Dave says, "You can't sell that cheap? I can, and I do!" Adam's Gregory Barber Shop Sherwood Forest Campground Adam Naif opened his barber shop August, 2008 in the historic Gregory grain elevator. The large hand-hewn beams that support the second level are a treasure. His shop is large and offers many amenities, including Wi-Fi and a web camera that clients can watch from home to judge the waiting time for a haircut. Interesting antiques decorate the area and can be purchased.

Adams graduated from Detroit Barber College in 1991. His education was funded by a state program for Detroit inner-city youth. He worked as a barber across most of southeast Michigan until 1997, when he took over a barbershop in Hamburg, renaming it Adam's Barbershop. He has no regrets about the decision to close the shop and move to downtown Gregory. The Sherwood Forest Campground is located on Big Portage former Grand Trunk Railroad, now Lakeland Trail, runs Lake in the Munith area, at 7945 Dunn Road. It was behind both his former and current barber shops. constructed in 1989, and was originally owned as the partnership of Noel Keane, Jim Lester and Bill Lester Adam celebrated the opening of his Gregory shop by (of Lester Brothers Excavating in Jackson). Jim and Bill purchasing a $1.50 small bean plant from Gee Farms. bought out Noel's interest in 1993 and became sole Both the bean plant and the number of clients have owners of the campground at that time. grown at a very fast rate. The shop, after 1 'h years, needs another barber, and the plant needs a much bigger The campgrowid is nestled in the midst of200 acres of pot. beautiful trees, ponds and creeks. It borders the northwest shores of Big Portage Lake. One can enjoy Dave's Bargains the rustic side of nature, yet still have such amenities as water, sewer and electrical hook-up. Clean restrooms Dave's Bargains is a weekend closeout business located and showers are available, and there is a camp store on in the granary plaz.a in Gregory. We are located in the site. Swimming, fishing and boating on the lake, and end building at 130-134 State Street (M-36). Only open volleyball, basketball, swimming in the pool and sitting on weekends, Dave's Bargains has over 150,000 new by the campfire on land make for a great summer. items to choose from, all priced to sell fast at prices that Special event take place all during the summer months, are simply not found at your normal retail store. Often and campers at Sherwood Forest have the added feature customers pay less than what other retailers pay for the of being able to visit their sites during the winter months same merchandise. as well. Although not able to spend extended time at their sites once the water is shut off for the winter; the Dave has a strong don't-gouge-the-public attitude, and campers continue to have access for visits to the that, coupled with the ability to find hot merchandise campground year round, thus having the opportunity to buys, adds up to great deals for our customers. You enjoy the beauty and fun of the winter months as well. never know what Dave will find, and new items arrive This is a unique feature, not offered within most weekly. We have been at this location for almost three campgrounds. years, and have been in the business for nearly ten years.

Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries Weekend campers are always welcome. It's a great way We started the CSA (Community Supported to relax, have some fun and try things out. If interested, Agriculture) program in 2007 with 10 shares. In 2008, permanent sites are usually available. The on-site we had 40 shares, and in 2009 we supplied 106 families manager, Randy Gattshall, and his wife, Patti, will be with farm fresh produce! In brief, CSA consists of a delighted to help you with any questions. Please call partnership between the farm and consumers sharing in (517) 596-2165. the harvest. The basic idea is this: At the beginning of a growing season, you buy into the farm by purchasing a Pregitzer Farm share. In exchange, you receive fresh produce on a weekly or bi-weekly basis.

In 2008, Wade made the farm his full-time career. This poses some challenges, but as our market continues to grow and expand it was necessary. One of our greenhouses was assembled and operating. In it, we started to grow flowers and start some of our own vegetables. We grew and sold about 150 hanging basket, plus flats and pots. The CSA tripled in size that year, allowing us to provide fresh produce to over 40 families. Fall entertainment was huge that year on the farm, and we added even more attractions.

In 2009, we started all of our own plants in three :finished greenhouses. We attended three farm markets weekly during the season. A couple of beef cows were added to the farm with the possibility of more in the Pregitz.er's farm crew: Shannon holding Grace, Wade future. We also had poultry and eggs to sell. holding Sarah and Margie with Evan and Cassidy in For 2010, we expect the CSA to remain the same front number, if not grow. We will have about 150 shares Pregitzer Farm Market started as a roadside stand in available. We may also offer an additional share option 1996, when Wade Pregitzer thought he'd grow and sell a in early summer, ifthe crops are successful. Since there few pumpkins. The following year, sweet com and has been such a huge demand for poultry and eggs, we watermelons were added, and they were a great hit. are planning on building another bigger shelter. We will This led to more items being grown and a very busy be starting even more vegetables and flowers to grow roadside stand in the following years! ourselves and to sell, beginning in the spring.

In 2003, we moved a quarter mile north, to a horse farm Circle Track Bar & Grill that was promptly turned into a produce farm. A small barn that is over 75 years old serves as our market. With the additional land and convenient location, we started growing and selling more produce than ever before.

We broadened our vision in 2005, with a focus on farm entertainment and education. We added a com maze, petting farm, hayrides and field trips. This generated phenomenal growth, resulting in Wade's dream of funning for a living becoming a tangible goal. To do this, we offered even more produce, education, and fun entertainment.

Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries In 1948, Lester and Margaret Musbach built the building accomplished while maintaining a full-time job in the on the comer of Musbacb Road and Plum Orchard (M- beating and cooling business. I 06) in Munith. This building became the community meat market and grocery and also their home, where Many changes have taken place in the beekeeping they raised their children, Jack and Nancy. industry in the past 30 years, including obstacles such as varroa and trachea mites, small hive beetles, colony collapse disorder (CCD), and Africanized bees. Through all these obstacles Phil has managed to maintain several hundred hives, and sells honey to local beekeepers in need of additional honey for their markets. Much of the extracting of the honey was accomplished with the assistance of Phil's wife and four children. What started as a hobby has grown into a business.

In 1951-52, at the ages of 9 to 10, Roger Musbach would help stock the shelves with dry goods and canned goods. Sometimes, he would spend the night with his cousins Jack and Nancy. A few years later, Lester and Margaret and their children changed the store over to a . family owned and operated restaurant. Throughout the next twenty-plus years, the building changed hands a number of times. Jn 2003, Roger Musbach restored the Musbach name to the property. While remodeling, Lester Musbach's name and the date of shipment was found on the steel support beam, between the restaurant and what used to be his home.

Roger Musbach reopened the family owned and Looking for a queen bee operated restaurant with a race theme, as the Circle Track Cafe. He has shared his love of all types of racing Tanner Heating & Cooling, LLC with others. Many of the community's young adults have held part-time jobs at the cafe. Tanner Heating & Cooling, LLC, opened for business in Gregory, Michigan in 2001. The business is owned and In 2006, with the support of many of the regular operated by brothers Phillip Tanner, Jr., and John customers, Roger Musbach and Bev Shortz added beer Tanner. Phil has over forty years experience in the and liquor to the restaurant fare. It became a family heating and cooling business. Much of this experience restaurant with the added option of having an alcohol comes as a supervisor for a large HVAC business in the beverage with a meal. The name was changed to Circle Brighton area. John bas over twenty three years Track Bar & Grill. experience in the heating and cooling business. He has many years of experience as a service manager for one Tanner Farm and Apiaries of Livingston County's largest HVAC companies.

Tanner Farm and Apiaries is located in Gregory, Tanner Heating & Cooling, LLC, installs and services Michigan. The business is owned and operated by furnaces and air conditioners, as well as custom heating, Phillip Tanner, Jr., who started his business in 1979 air conditioning, ductwork and fittings. They do both because of a need to pollinate four hundred young fruit residential and commercial work in the Stockbridge, trees that were starting to bloom early. Phil d~veloped Munith and Gregory areas for about a 75 mile radius. an almost immediate love for the bees, whose hives over They work for several builders doing both subdivisions the years have grown to a point of o;er 850 col~nies of and custom homes. Their mo~o is, "Time is money. honeybees at 35 different locations. This was Let b th" us save you o .

Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries ' -I

Ezra and Ada Hannewald wedding, Nov. 16, 1910 Lewis and Augusta Feldpausch

Marsh Hay on the Hannewald farm McCleer Boat Rental on Williamsville Lake

Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries Stockbridge State Bank & SSBBank Logos

r r

S_TOCKBRIDGE ~TATE BANK

S:rocKBRIDGE °STATE BANK

R STOCKBRIDGE STATE•BANK

Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries Willow Creek Golf In 1964, Richard and Janet Price decided to stop farm­ ing and build a 9 hole golf course. Along with their three daughters they started to lay out the design which is known as Willow Creek Golf Club. The course was ready to open in 1965. They turned the barn into a club house starting with a starter house and later adding a pro shop. They owned and operated it until 1975 when they sold it to John and Marilyn Eccleton and their five sons. The Eccletons enlarged the club house and added a pizzeria and restaurant. Little change has been made to the course. Willow Creek Golf Club is located three miles west of Stockbridge on Heeney Road.

The Haircut House In front of the Unadilla Store in 1936 The Haircut House opened on December 10, 1980. It's owner, Judi Hannewald, graduated from the C.A.C.C. School of Cosmetology in 1974. She worked for barber stylist Joe Divietri at the Hair Com­ pany before coming home to Stockbridge to open her new salon. The Haircut House is located at 14880 M- 52, Stockbridge, Michigan.

Caskey-Mitchell Funeral Home in 1973

Crane Grocery Store, Munith

Stockbridge Theater Guild, circa 1940. Back: Charles Bumpus, Marian Ramsdell, Helen Mitteer, Nick Kirbaway, Marion Collier, Margaret Felton, Doris Bumpus. Front: Bob Sdunek, Ann Ker­ Belle and Carrie Havens baway, Leon Keeper, Evelyn Lantis, Bob Mitteer.

Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries LOCAL HISTORIES

White Oak Township

Excerpts from a history of White Oak Township wTitten by Carole Oesterle in 1977.

In 1824, the exterior lines of White Oak Township were surveyed by Joseph Wampler. The land had a dense forest of oak, ash, black walnut and hickory, also tamarack which was found in the swamps. The bulk of this was white oak that grew in such a way that the settlers called it "oak openings," referring to the spaces or open­ ings between the trees. Annually the Indians would improve their game preserve by burning the small brush between the trees. The settlers cleared the land in the same way.

Records stored in the White Oak Township Hall date back to before Michigan's entry into the union. They show that in 1834 Herman Lowe settled on a farm on Section 33, but most other records show and accredit Daniel Dutcher to be the earliest pioneer who built a home within the boundaries of White Oak Township. He was originally a resident of Montgomery Co., New York where he worked and saved for 10 years so he could move west. In May of 1835. leaving his family, he ventured west and bought 335 acres in section 35 of White Oak Township from the Government for ten shillings an acre. He returned home in June, and in September of 1835 with his family and all their belongings and a life savings of 1,500 dollars. they headed for Michigan. They came by canal to Buffalo and crossed the lake to Detroit, and there purchased a year's supplies plus a yoke of oxen and wagon, into which be loaded his household goods and family. r Mr. Dutcher went forward to build his log house, which was 20' by 20', on section 35 of White Oak Township. He moved bis family into their primitive abode in October of that year, before he had any windows or doors in it.

A daughter was born to Mr. and Mrs. Dutcher on Dec. 19, 1835, whom they christened Abigail, better known as Abby. She was the first white child born in the township.

The Dutcher family lived alone in the untamed wilderness with the Indians, bears, deer and wolves. The Indians were very hospitable and many a pioneer wouldn't have survived had it not been for their help. The Indians loved to play games. They never gave any trouble to mention. except a little thieving. The wolves, on the other hand, would like to serenade you nightly and would have to be driven away with burning brands from the fireplace before the family could go to sleep. Jim Hynes entered land in October 1835, on sections 35 and 36, and the following year settled on it. His farm embraced 160 acres, which he cleared, improved and made productive.

Henry and John Clements were the next settlers in White Oak Township. Arriving in May of 1836, the former entered land on sections 28 and 29, upon which he built a log cabin and did some clearing. John Clements owned a farm on section 21. John was the first supervisor for White Oak Township. They both were very active in local government. The father of the Clements' brothers died in the township during the year 1836 or possibly a year later. This was the earliest death recorded in the township.

The original government in the area was comprised of four townships-White Oak, Ingham, Wheatfield and Leroy on March 11, 1937 by the legislature. The first town meeting was held at the home of Caleb Carr, ances­ tor of our present supervisor (that is, supervisor in 1977), Delmar Carr, on April 2, 1938. Twenty-five voters were present. They met to organize a government and elect township officials. These voters were originally from Massachusetts, Vermont, New York and New Jersey. They bad some learning and were used to different forms of government which varied from state to state. Each rugged pioneer had his own preference as to how a township should be run and political argument nearly broke up the meeting. As a last resort, William Dryer made a motion that they adopt the same form of government that Stockbridge had adopted a short time before. This was a compromise measure and was agreed upon. The same form of government is used today with slight modification.

The following spring the four township government was dissolved and White Oak Township formed its own government on March 21, 1839. The first meeting with qualified voters was held at the home of Daniel Dutcher on April 2, 1839. Cyrus Post was chosen moderator, and William Balletine, Henry Clements, and James Rathbum inspectors of elections; William A. Dryer was installed as clerk,. The following individuals were. elected for 1839: Supervisor, John Clements; Township Clerk, William Dryer; Treasurer, Richard Oakley; Justice o the Peace, Cyrus Post, William Ballentine, Daniel Dutcher. Henry Clements; Highway Commis- Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries sioners, David P. Dryer, William S. Hall, Alfred Howard; Assessors, John Mc Kernan, Hiel Phelps, James Rathbum, Primary School Inspectors, Cyrus Post, John Clements, William A. Dryer; Collector, William Post; Overseers of Poor, Jonathan Thomas, John Gillam; Constables, William Post, William Van Buren.

Records in the township show that on April 7, 1873 at their annual meeting the people of White Oak voted to raise five hundred dollars to build a township hall. On April 5, 1875 they voted to establish a site for a town hall on the northeast comer of the "Hamilton Lot." The building committee was appointed as follows: Charles S. Young, David Osborn, Robert Wilson. After Mr. Young resigned in October, Thomas McKeman replaced him on the committee. These men also voted in the 187 5 meeting to have their next annual meeting at the new hall; however, there is no record of its use until Dec. 17, 1877 and the date 1877 is inscribed on the outside of the present structure.

In 1967 the township board hired the architectural firm of Mayotte & Webb to draw up plans for an addition to the old building which include a modem bathroom and a small kitchen plus a meeting room. This, of course, also necessitated digging a well, as water bad never been available at the original hall. During the summer of 1968 the building was completed. Jack Schaible, Stockbridge, was the general contractor. The new addition to the township hall was built without raising township taxes. It was paid over a two year period at a estimated cost of 15,000 dollars.

White Oak Township is the only all rural township in Ingham County. The 1960 census gave us a population of exactly 1,000 people. With the loss of the general store (in 1968) there is no business or manufacturing in the township. The sawmill, blacksmith shop and post office have been gone for many years. One or two small home factories that had been started in earlier days closed when their owners died. So our township is strictly rural and our people find it a very desirable place in which to live. The rattlesnakes which infested the tamarack swamps are seldom seen anymore and modem technology has taken over much of the back-breaking labor on our farms.

Current officers are Dorwin Marshall (Supervisor), Leela Vernon (Clerk), Mary Joan McArthur (Treasurer) and Todd Baker and Diane Graf (Trustees.

Stockbridge Township

The Township of Stockbridge was organized November 26, 1836, and was the first township to be organized in Ingham County. The village was platted soon after.

The Town Hall was built on the square in 1892 by Stockbridge Township and was completely renovated in 1979; efforts were made to keep it a historical building. Michigan Historical Commission announced in 1975 that the Stockbridge Town Hall owned by Stockbridge Township bas been listed in the State of Michigan Register of Historical Sites. In 2009, a new elevator was installed and the windows on the second floor were replaced with energy efficient windows.

In the early years of the Town Hall basketball games, dances, graduations and movies were held in the upper auditorium area. In part of the basement area, the Stockbridge Township Library operated.

The Town Hall is widely used for Lions Club meetings, area historical society meetings, Stockbridge area 4-H club meetings, the senior citizen group activities, township meetings, dance recitals, choir concerts and many other miscellaneous activities. A group called The Town Hall Players was formed and currently uses the building to provide many entertaining plays for the surrounding area.

In 2004 the Stockbridge Township, in conjunction with Waterloo, White Oak, and Bunker Hill Townships, formed the Stockbridge Area Emergency Services Authority (SAESA), which provides ambulance and fireForest service Parke for the Library four Townships. & Archives SAESA - Capital is funded Area byDistrict a millage Libraries voted upon by people Jiving within the coverage area. The ambulance service continues to be housed at the Town HaJl.

The Stockbridge Library facility, a branch of the Capital Area District Library, is provided by the Stockbridge Township. The library was remodeled and enlarged in 1997.

Due to the Increase in technology and the wide use of cell phones, permits were granted to construct two cellular towers in the township; in 1995 a tower on Adams Rd was constructed and in 2000, a tower on South M -106.

The population of Stockbridge Township in 2009 was around 3,435. The projected budget for Stockbridge Township in the fiscal year Aprill, 2010 to March 31, 2011 was income of$309,789.00 and expenses of$304,265.00.

The Stockbridge Township Board members in 2010 were Supervisor- Paul Risner, Treasurer- Kris Lauckner, Clerk- Mary Wilson, Trustee- Terry Sommer and Trustee- Ed Wetherell.

Stockbridge Community Schools

Stockbridge Board of Education Members, 1961-2010 Edward Weddon, June Taylor. Duane Ford. Olin Wild, Lea James, Dan Howlett. Almon Lathrop, Elwin Breniser, Thomas Campbell, Dwain Dancer, June Myers, Robert Denome, Betty Dancer, Gary Comish, Cliff Bollman, Robert Jackson, Everell Huttenlocher, Walter Barbour, Charles Bumpus, Judy Heeney, Timothy Boos, Joe Taylor. Randy Myers. Joseph Hanna. Carol Blewett, Carolyn Cook. Craig Goodlock, Thomas Clark, James Crom. Darwin Snider, Charlotte Camp, Ellen Boring, Richard Risner, Howard Spence, John Ocwieja, Ray Chamberlain, Carrie Graham, Christopher Kruger, Dave Wilson, Kimberly DeWaard, Sam Moceri. Kevin Jacobs. Laurie Goodlock. Cindy Lance, Steve Zeigler.

Stockbridge Superintendents Since 1891 - 2010 1891, Jonathan Cook; 1893, T. A. Stephens; 1895. A. A. Hall: 1898, E. S. Searl: 1907. T. E. Johnson; 1911 , J. H. McLaughlin; 1912, George A. Smith; 1914, R. W. Sprinkle; 1915. Arthur R. Can: 1917, F. E. Vansickle; 1919, L. S. Gray; 1920. Ario Bennett; 1924, Floyd Haight; 1928, Fred Passenger: 1930, L G. Morse; 1935. A. J. Stroud; 1943, Jesse W. Batchelor; 1970, Richard C. Howlett; 1980, Patrick Decker; 1982, Robert L. Boyd: 1983, Robert Sutherby: 1984, Robert L. Boyd; 1984, David Myers; 1988, Richard C. Howlett; 1988, Donald Pobuda; 1989, Andrew DeSager; 1994, Curtis Bartz; 1994, Bruce Wm. Brown. (Former superintendents listed a second time returned to serve the Board as interim superintendent during management transitions)

1994 Renovations In the fall of 1994 the Stockbridge Board of Education authorized the formation of the Stockbridge Blue Ribbon Citizens Committee with the purpose of making a Board recommendation about needed building and facility improvements in the Stockbridge Community School District. Jill Peck and Nancy Rogozinski organized and chaired the volunteer group. They were supported by Superintendent Bruce Brown and more than 30 committee members. The outcome of the committee's work was a successful vote authorizing a $4,000,000 Board of Education bond issue to fund facility improvements. New roofs, floor tile replacement, locker room renovations, a new high school gym floor and replacement asphalt around the district were included in the bond work.

It is significant that also included in the 1994 bond work was the installation of the district's first Internet connected computer network. One of the many benefits this allowed was for Stockbridge students to take Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries online classes and access vast stores of information from the world of the Internet. It is further noteworthy that during this period the Stockbridge High School Librarian, Debra Overbey, had the insight to secure the school district's worldwide web domain name, Panthemet.net, through the domain registry service. The School Board finished all bond projects within budget and enough money remained available for the Board to pave the high school parking lot.

2000 Construction Projects In the fall of 1999 the Blue Ribbon Citizens Committee formed once again with the purpose of continuing their exploration of ways to improve school buildings and facilities in the Stockbridge School District Julie Taylor, Judy Richards, and Dave Peck who were supported by more than 50 volunteer community members chaired the Blue Ribbon Committee. Over the course of the school year the committee carefully conducted a Feasibility Study on the condition and use patterns of all school facilities. During the study Stockbridge Superintendent Bruce Brown and the Fanning/Howey Architectural firm also supported the Blue Ribbon Committee. The role of the architect and school superintendent was to ensure that building use suggestions and cost estimates for improvements were realistic and accurate.

On May 8, 2000, the Blue Ribbon Committee study had concluded and they made a recommendation to the Stockbridge Board of Education to seek a bond vote to finance the construction of a new elementary school, renovate Emma Smith Elementary School, upgrade district technology, and construct an auditorium and second gym at the high school. The School Board accepted the Blue Ribbon Committee recommendation and the electorate voted on September 23, 2000, to approve the majority of the projects. The vote tally showed that 600/o of the electorate voted to issue $17,450,000 in bonds to finance the school construction and technology projects. The ballot proposals to construct a high school auditorium and additional gym generated a few votes less than the majority needed, so they were set aside for another day. The Board of Education retained the Fanning/Howey Architectural firm and completed all voter approved projects within budget.

The new elementary school was constructed on property belonging to the school district just west of Smith Elementary School and was designed by a community based committee. The School Board, following a review of suggestions by students and community members, named the new building Heritage Elementary School. Heritage Elementary was first occupied by proud grade three through five students and school staff on February 23, 2003. School staff and preschool through second grade students reoccupied the expanded and renovated Smith Elementary on August 23, 2004.

One of the significant issues that surfaced during the Blue Ribbon Committee Feasibility Study was the "Centering" of school district buildings in Stockbridge. This required the establishment of an adaptive reuse for the school buildings in Gregory and Munith, Discussion of the concept was long and intense, but in the end the Blue Ribbon Committee vote to recommend centering to the Board of Education was heavily in favor. Howlett Elementary School in Gregory has since been leased to Unadilla Township and the Livingston County Head Start Program. In addition, Howlett Elementary houses the Unadilla Police Department and has a room reserved for the area senior citizens. Katz Elementary School in Munith has been leased to Henrietta Township and Waterloo Township and is one of the only buildings in the State of Michigan to house two township offices. The Waterloo Police Department and area senior citizens are also housed at Katz Elementary School. Both buildings continue to be maintained and remain available for community use.

Maintaining A School District During An Economic Downturn Michigan has been among the states hardest hit by the nation's economic downturn. In response to reduced state revenue for schools, the Stockbridge Board of Education reduced costs by more than $2,500,000 between 2004 and 2010 to maintain fiscal stability. The Board had also slowly accumulated cash reserves in case of such a downturn. and used $1,000,000 in cash reserves during this period to maintain critical programs for students.

Since the new school funding plan, Proposal A, started in 1994 the previous emphasis on property tax revenue Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries as the source for school funding was switched to reliance on sales tax revenue. As consumer spending slowed, receipts into the school aid fund declined, which limited state support for schools. Since school funding comes to state districts based on the number of students enrolled, reduced student enrollment has caused state school districts additional funding problems. School district enrollment in Stockbridge, along with other Michigan school districts, has followed the declining birth rate trend and has been further reduced by families leaving the state for employment reasons. In 1980 Stockbridge Schools counted 2,049 students in the kindergarten through 12th grade range. By the 2010 school year, K-12 enrollment was at l,661 students. While the Board of Education has worked hard to maintain district stability, there has been a 20 % reduction in students.

While school funding remains an issue across the state, visitors to Stockbridge Schools will see banners with the State of Michigan Department of Education School Report Card Grade in the halls of our buildings. The grades are A's and are a testament to the involvement of our Board, the quality of our staff, and the diligent work of our students and parents.

Munith

The town ofMunith owes its existence to the Grand Trunk Railroad system, and the vision and generosity of farmer Hiram Sutton.

In the early l880's the Grand Trunk Railroad started making plans to run a track from Jackson to Pontiac. They needed to build a depot in northeastern Jackson County. People in the vic!nities of both Munith and Gassburg were hoping for the depot. Gassburg was a small community located on Territorial Road, where it intersects Fitchburg Road. Munith got the depot and Gassburg slowly dissolved.

Along with the train depot, came the need for a conm1ercial infrastructure; thus Munirh was born.

Hiram Sutton sold a log cabin to be used for the train depot and platted his farm for the town. The name Munith was chosen as a slight variation of Munich. Germany, the ancestral home of many of the early settlers. Years later a new depot would be build by the railroad. This building would in tum be tom down by Jim Wordon in 1977. He used the lumber to build an ice cream parlor. The business was called," Jot Em Down", for the names etched in the siding. This business was closed and the Munith Market moved into this building in 1983.

Able McCley built a grain elevator near the train depot in 1884. lt served the Munith area until 1969 when it was torn down. At that time Vern Parks owned it.

Mr. Sutton offered a building site to any church that would come to the new town. The United Methodists decided to move their church building from Gassburg to Munith. The building was moved to Munith in J 887. The United Methodist Church of Munith has a long distinguished history.

A hotel once stood on the site that is the present day Lions Community Park. It was built in 1885 by William Breitrnayer. The hotel was torn down in l 975. The story was told that a gambler had lost a fifty dollar gold piece in the hotel. Speculation was that it fell through the cracks in the floor. This stol")· helped fuel the demolition crew in tearing down the old building. Alas, no coin was ever found.

By 1890, Munith had several general stores, a brick factory, a blacksmith shop, a harness shop, a grain elevator. a furniture store which also housed an undertaker's business. Other businesses were a cobbler shop, a barbershop, a meat market, newspaper, a drug store, and two physicians, one of which was Dr. Conlon who moved his practice from Gassburg to Munith. The buildings that housed these businesses were all interconnected, forming several blocks of commercial establishments. Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries In 1913, a fire destroyed much ofMunith. The buildings that housed the businesses of Charles Crane, Ed Carley, the Bank, the shoe store. and the Stowell's were all destroyed. By 19 !4 severai of the buildings were rebuilt. Several of these buildings still stand today.

A new bank was started in l 922 in a storefront building on the east side of Main Street. It was called the Fam1ers State Bank. An employee who would become very important to the Munith area was Fred Ford. He eventually became president of the Bank until 1980. Wilber Beeman became president of the bank from 1980 until 1986. Wilber's wife, Leona was principal of Katz Elementary School for many years. Their impact on the Munith area is still felt today. Another employee, who became president and one who has had a great impact on tbe area is Craig Goodlock. Since 1986, Craig has been a down to earth banker who has a fondness to dress like a woman at Halloween. Craig is knom1 and loved by all in the Munith area.

One infamous business sat just to the north of the Farmers State Bank. It was called the Gingham Inn. It was an eating establishment that served alcohol. In the 1950's it became the scene of many fights and stabbings. It burned in 197 4. Farmers State Bank purchased the lot, and a new bank building was erected on the site. The bank moved into this new building in 1977.

During this time, Munith developed the reputation of being a rowdy town. Halloween became a particularly active holiday with outhouses being overturned on Main Street, and bon fires set ablaze. This distinction is still observed as every year, tbe Munith Lions Club sponsors a parade on the Saturday before Halloween.

A school once sat on the corner of Territorial Rd. and Musbach Rd., which served the families ofMunith. fn 1925, William Mayer donated land for a new school in Munith. On this site was built a 2 1\2 story, four-room school, which served grades 1-10. fn the late l 950's. a large modem addition was put onto the building, and it was named the Katz Elementary School. The high school students were transferred to Stockbridge. This brought an end of the one-room schools that dotted the surrounding area. These students were brought into the Katz Elementary School, and the one-room buildings were closed. When the Katz Elementary School closed its students were bussed to Stockbridge. The school building is now leased to the Waterloo, and Henrietta Townships and it houses their offices.

A farm with great significance to Munith is the Pine Croft Farm. It sits a half-mile noith of Munith and is currently owned by Dean and \ larilyn Katz. It is believed that the farm was pan of the Underground Rai lroad during the Civil War era. In 1961. it became the site of incident of national importance. An Air force jet crashed in the yard just outside the farmhouse. The jet was part of a training exercise out of an air base in Wisconsin. It was accidentally fired upon with live ammunition. The pilot ejected and was safely rescued in Waterloo. As the jet fell from the sky, it was feared that it would land on the Munith school. It took so long for the jet to crash that there was time to evacuate the children from the school building. When it became evident that the plane would crash away from the school, the children watched as it came down, erupting in a giant cloud of smoke.

Another farm that was of great importance to Munith was Lacerne Dixon, Inc. In the l 930's, the mud.]' marshes south of Munith were drained and made ready for farming. Many farmers took advantage of the richness of this soil for vegetable farming. The Picketts, Renos, Hudecheks, Drews, Carleys, and Marshalls were just a few of the families that tried their hand at growing onions, potatoes, lettuce, radishes and sod. Laceme Dixon started his farm in the l 930's. Laceme bought out most of the small vegetable farms surrounding him, and slowly grew to one of the largest farm operations in the state of Michigan. During World War ll, he had German PO W's who worked on his farm. At this time, many families moved to Munith from eastern Kentucky, looking for a better life. Many of these families worked for Laceme Dixon. Later, as the need for more field workers increased, migrant farm workers from Texas and Mexico came to work the fields. During lettuce harvest, crews from the Philippi11es were brought in to cut the lettuce. For many years, the vastness of the Dixon farm brought Munith the distinction of being the Onion Capital of the state. However, as Laceme aged, the farm slowed until it was sold off in the late 1990's. Today, Tom Bury owns much of the farm.

Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries Other businesses that have been of great importance to Muni th were H & F Sales. specializing in Allis Chalmers farm machinery, Stowe Brothers Buick, and Stoddards repair shop.

The Stoddard building, which sat on the corner of M-106 and Neu Rd., became home to Metalform, a factory owned and operated by Chris Salow. Metalform became the parent company of the nationally recognized "Shop Rat" program. This organization is designed to showcase the importance of machinists and factory workers worldwide. It established a working relationship with Orange County Choppers of California. Today Metalform has relocated to Pleasant Lake, and the "Shop Rat" program offers classes to teens, creating a desire in them to machine steel. The original Metalfonn building now houses Salow Machine Works.

Past and present businesses include, the hardware store, which has been owned by the Frinkles, Clarks ·and Wilson's. Luman Clark once owned and operated a gas station in Munitb during the l 950's. Munitb Lumber was owned by Everell Huttenlocker and operated until the l 980's. The building was sold and Judy's Pizza moved in. For years, they specialized in offering a party pizza, which was a full 24" in diameter. Today this building houses Big Chuck's Pizza.

One business that has long existed in Munith, is the RTC. Formerly known as Ross Tank Co. This business has thrived in Munith for decades. They specialize in building metal tanks of all shapes and sizes.

The Jeruel Baptist Church ofMunith was founded in 1974 by the Galilean Baptist Mission of Grand Rapids. In 1976 they called Pastor Bob Castle to be their pastor. Pastor Bob, as he came to be called, grew up in the Munith area. The church currently has a membership of over 150.

A restaurant that has served the people of Munith for decades, is located on the comer of M-I06 and Musbach Road. For years it was known as the "Corner Kitchen." It was built in the l 950's, and was operated by Lester Musbach. He sold the restaurant to Bill and Rose Hutchison in the I 970's. They called the business, "Rose's Komer Kitchen". In 1992 the restaurant was sold to Phil and Pat Puhr. After several years, they closed the restaurant and it sat vacant. It was reopened in the 2000's by Roger Musbach, the nephew of Lester. Today it is called "Circle Track Cafe".

The Village of Stockbridge@ 175

2010 is a census year in the U.S. but as of today (5/21/10) the census is not complete so we can only report that the population of Stockbridge is 1,260 persons, according to the census of 2000. The average village resident pays $245 per quarter for sewer, water and trash collection. Next month the

Village Council will set this year's millage rate and it will remain at 10.74 mills for operating plus 2 mills for local street improvements for a total of 12.74 mills. By comparison, the millage rate in 1955 was 15 mills. The 2010 S.E.V. for the village is $35,329,600, nearly $6,000,000 less than 2009 and that is the first time in modern history that the value of the village has fallen.

In the past 25 years the village has undertaken many civil projects to maintain and upgrade our utilities and services. Listed here are a few:

1994-Clinton Street widening Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries 1995-New water tower goes on line

2003-Waste water improvement project $2.7 million

2005-Maple Street water project-$375,000

2006-Wood Street water project-$250,000

2008 East side water project-$530,000

2009-New well pumps-$60,000

Other notable developments in village governance include the re-formation of our local police department in 2005 and the occupation ofa new village hall in 2009. In 1994 the Michigan Department ofNatural Resources converted the former Grand Trunk Railroad bed into Lakeland Trails State Park and in 2010 the Village signed a lease for the 4.1 miles of trail that is inside the Township of Stockbridge. The village is currently working on a trail plan that will connect the Lakeland Trail to the Beckwith Conservancy trail and the Stockbridge Schools trails to create a 5 mile pedestrian pathway inside the village.

Since Pat Long was appointed the first village manager in 1981. the village has had 6 full time managers.

L Pat Long 1981-1 992 2. Roger Price 1993-1999 3. Stephen Penn 1999-2002 4. Jack Myers 2003-2006 5. Denise Koning 2006-2007 6. Dan Dancer 2008-

As reported twenty five years ago the Village Council created the Stockbridge Development Authority in 1985 and I am pleased to say that since then the SDDA has been effective in helping the village to make some significant improvements in the village. Here are the highlights:

1989-Built Veterans Memorial Park

1992-Gave the downtown a facelift with new streetscapes

1995-Created the Stockbridge Industrial Park

2005-Refurbished the old Country Market fa~ade and Wood Street parking lot

2009-Built the pedestrian pathway and bridge on South Clinton

2010-Improved the Herbert Street parking lot on the site of the old Minix property

There is no question that the SDDA has been an effective tool for the village and we look forward to their continued work on economic development and infrastructure opportunities in the future. Currently, times are tough in our beautiful village, and so too throughout Michigan and the nation. The housing crash which begun Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries in 2007 has caught up to Stockbridge, as it has all towns and cities. Due to defaults and foreclosures we find that every neighborhood contains several empty homes. In 2005 a 52 unit condominium project broke ground on Brogan Road and has only been able to build 5 units due to the suppressed demand for real estate. The good news is that as we celebrate our rich history we remain optimistic about the future of our community. Every day I see many people who are working to make Stockbridge a better place to study, work, worship, and live and I am happy to be among them.

Plainfield

Plainfield is nestled on the corner of M-36 and Bradley Road. in Unadilla Township. Nuri1erous Native American trails crossed each other at or near the village site. It was originally named Dyersburg, but-was changed in 1837 when a post office was established. Jacob Dunn renamed it Plainfield, after a town in New Jersey. About 1833, settlers traveled the trails in search of land to clear and farm. Many times the men would venture alone to locate land to purchase. They would return later with their families. Jacob Dunn traveled from New Jersey to become the first pioneer to purchase land in 1835. Many more settlers followed: Levi Clawson came from Ohio; Fleet Van Sickle and Philip Dyer came from New Jersey David Dutton purchased land northwest of Plainfield in I 83 7. Samuel Wasson was from Buffalo, New York and he settled in the area about 1837. In 1839. Dr. Morgan and Albert G. Topping came from Ohio. By 1852, Unadilla Township was r completely purchased.

The Native Americans traded venison. fish and tanned hides for salt and whiskey with the settlers. They shared their knowledge of the plants and wildlife with the newcomers. Philip Dyer built his brick home west of Plainfield and operated a tavern. Morris Topping began a general store in 1853. He also opened a baiTel making factory, saw mill, grist mill, hotel, blacksmith shop, and wagon shop. As written in the "1880 History of Livingston County" about Manis Topping,: "Plainfield is an enterprising village, much of whose prosperity is due to the energy of Mr. Topping, who owns two-thirds of the village." By 1873 , Morris Topping built a new general store with the Odd fellows Hall on the second floor. J\t the time, the population of Plainfield was 500. The home of Sylvester Topping is still elegantly standing. It is the French Mansard style home on the east side of the village. Morris Topping, Sr. built the home east of the cemetery.

In 1884, the Grand Trunk Railroad ran their new road through the Gregory Farm, three miles south. The railroad brought ease of trade and travel to the area. One by one the merchants began moving their establishments to Gregory. By 1887, two of Plainfield's three general stores were now in Gregory and Levi Jacobs had moved his hotel there. Many homes were moved as well. The Maccabee Hall was built in I905 to house the fraternal society that provided benefits to its members before life insurance was easily available to ordinary people. It was a social gathering place for dances and potlucks. The Maccabees building, easily identified by the letters "LOTMM KOTMM" (Ladies of the Maccabees Knights of the Maccabees) above the door. The Methodist church was built in 1907 and continues to hold services. The Presbyterian Church and the schoolhouse bordered the original cemetery. Both buildings are now gone and the property has been added to the cemetery.

In 1950, a larger grocery store was built to later operate as Max's Mall owned by Max and Margaret Cosgray. Margai·et continued to run the grocery until a couple of years ago. Morris Topping's I 880's general store is the location for R. W. Humrich & Sons, a farm hardware store. Gary Humrich still uses the huge safe Topping installed. R. W. Humrich leased the site in 1965 for their fuel oil distribution office and later purchased the building. In 1976, the Humrich family branched out into tractor repair. They obtained a franchise for New Idea farm equipment and Allis Chalmers tractors in the late 1970's. They are currently the only remaining business in Plainfield.

Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries Unadilla

Unadilla was set up on the Portage Creek. This stream connects Williamsville Lake and Woodburn Lake, which in turn flows into Bass and then into Patterson Lake. Portage Creek was deepened and widened the entire distance between the first two lakes and this was done entirely by man power.

The village of Unadilla proper was platted April 14, 1837 by a Richard Peterson, Jr:; however it was not recorded until April 21, 1840. Robert Glenn and Thomas Sill were the proprietary names on the plat. Until 1836 the village was called Milan, but when a post office was established it was discovered another post office with same name existed in Milan, Michigan south of Ann Arbor. The village then took the name of Unadilla.

Two of the earliest settlers at West Unadilla or Williamsville were Amos Williams and Eli Ruggles. A dam was built there to run a sawmill. This furnished rough lumber for most of the houses and barns in the nearby communities. A dam was built on Fish Creek, which flows into Portage Creek, just east of East Unadilla. This furnished power to saw lumber and grind grain into flour.

A mill was built across the Portage Creek on the 40 acres given by Robert Glenn. Many people owned the mill. Later it was discovered that Portage Creek did not have sufficient water to run all the mills.

Unadilla had a blacksmith shop, leather shop, a hat shop, and a wagon shop. A cooper shop manufactured barrels which were used to haul oil, molasses, crackers, and other articles to be sold in the two stores. A hotel occupied the corner of Main and Ingham streets. ·

The Killa Dilla was a small sandwich shop operated on land owned by the Black family. It was located across the road from the Unadilla store.

The Black family owned and operated Black's Country Club located in the large home on the comer of Unadilla and Williamsville Roads. They built this establishment upon being refused membership at the Inverness Club. Black's Country Club hosted numerous wedding receptions and other events. The attire was black tie and very formal. Guests were given an option of spending a night at the club.

Marlene Fear lived across the street from the Black's Country Club. Her mother helped Mrs. Black with food preparation. They would color the bread with a rainbow of colors and cut them into shapes for the hors d'oeuvres. Marlene's mother would bring home the scraps that had been cut from the bread for Marlene to hold tea parties with her dolls and young friends.

The blacksmith shop was two stories with May's Hall upstairs. The Odd Fellows held their meetings in this hall. In the 1940's, Ralph Teachout removed the second level. The Odd Fellows moved their meetings to Stockbridge.

The hall above the Livermore store held many socials. One popular event was the oyster dinners that were the result of sparrow hunts. The community families were divided in half. Each side tried to kill the most sparrows. Frequently they stole sparrows from the other side, which was half the fun of the hunt In the end, both sides totaled the kill and the losing side had to treat the winning side to an oyster supper. The sparrows were taken to the Township treasurer who paid a two-cent bounty for each sparrow. This helped defray the expense of the supper.

The first schoolhouse was built in 1838. Later a brick school was built south of the park. In 1914, a tornado roared in from the west and leveled the brick school building. It was replaced by a frame building, which still stands.

Fay and Almeda Roepcke donated 13 acres behind the Presbyterian Church to the Livingston Land Conservancy. The entire eastern edge runs along the mill pond to help keep the rural character intact of the historic village of Unadilla. There is a diverse mix of vegetation, including the rare plant, Celtis temuifolia (Dwarf Hackberry).

Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries The Unadilla Township Community Park is approximately 3 acres across the road from the closed Unadilla School. Since it lay north of the school it was always used as a playground for the children when school was in session. A gazebo was built as an Eagle Scout project by Ryan Boyce. Future plans include the construction of a walking path around the perimeter, new signs, playground equipment and the planting of flowers.

Unadilla Store

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The Unadilla Mercantile, which was built in 1873, has been home to a diverse field of businesses, along with always being a General Store. The store was awarded a Michigan Centennial Business plaque by the Historical Society of Michigan for having more than 100 years of continuous operation. A few of the businesses which operated within the Unadilla store were a post office, living quarters, gas station, a restaurant, beauty shop. accountant office, lawn care service business and an upstairs Community Center. The Community Center hosted dances, weddings and community get-togethers.

The Unadilla Store has had many owners. Among the first were a Mr. O.H. Obert and W. S. Livennore. The Unadilla Store is presently owned and operated by Jim Harbert and family. This historical building and business has seuvived tomados, the Great Depression and has been in operation since Ulysses S. Grant was President of the United States. With the passage of time and the destruction of the town from a devastating tornado in 1914, 900/o of the town was destroyed with only 4 buildings remaining; the Unadilla Store, two churches and the little house next to the store.

A visit to the Unadilla Store will transport you back in time; the memorabilia throughout the store is just a glimpse of what life was like in 1873. Ifyou haven't visited us lately, stop in for a flash back to the past.

Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries Fitchburg

By Pastor Bob Castle and Barbara Risner

Nestled halfway between Stockbridge and Leslie is the tiny town of Fitchburg, which was originally settled by the Ferris Fitch family. The Fitches built several businesses as well as the large brick home, called the Fitch mansion. (This home is currently owned by Neal and Joan Conway)

The town grew rapidly during the mid 1800's. At one time the town had a gunsmith, a general store, a physician, two lawyers, two masons, a carriage maker, a hotel, a cobbler, a livery stable, a cooper, a blacksmith. a cabinet maker, a miller, a saw mill, a justice of the peace and a church.

The Fitch family was heavily involved in state politics, several of them holding state offices. As they moved from the area, the rapid growth of Fitchburg slowed and the town declined.

Fitchburg survives to this day, being home to hundreds of people in the area. It will no doubt see growth in the years ahead.

The original inhabitants of this area were Native American. Indian artifacts have been recovered from the surrounding fields for years. The early white settlers were of Irish and German Ancestry. In the mid 1900's, the population of the area increased with the migration of families from Kentucky. They were escaping the poverty of the Great Depression and saw an opportunity in the farms that dotted the area.

A business long since removed from Fitchburg is the Poxon's Blacksmith Shop. Owned by Benjamin Poxon, this shop served the equestrian and carriage needs of the area in the early 1900s'. The business sat on the north side of the general store. By the 1950's, the building was gone. Benjamin's great granddaughter, Kay, is married to Merlin Batdorff.

The Fitchburg General Store survived until the 1980's. The store had numerous owners. The Larabies owned the store around the late 30's or 40's. Raymond Lane ran it during the 1940's and 1950's. Raymond Lane was instrumental in getting the streetlights in Fitchburg.

In the 1960's, the Lane daughter Barb and her husband, Chuck Webb ran the store. Many adults have fond memories as children, walking to the store, and finding empty pop bottles along the way. These bottles could be cashed in for a 2-cent deposit to purchase penny candy.

The Store had a community room on the second floor, which was a gathering place for two organizations. The Grange, a local farmers organization, would meet there and the Ladies Aid society. The Ladies Aid sold chicken dinners from the upper level of the store. Some of this money was used to build the Methodist church building.

The store made Fitchburg a busy place, especially on Saturdays. Cars would line the street as patrons bought their week's supply of groceries.

Besides groceries, the store sold hardware, dry goods, toys, gas and oil. The store had a meat counter and carried a great line of fresh cuts of meat purchased from local farmers. Max Hecht was the Fitchburg store butcher.

Unfortunately, as people became more mobile, the customers of the Fitchburg store fell away. The pa-trons chose to drive to Jackson, where prices were cheaper. In the mid 1960's, the Webbs made a last ditch effort to rejuvenate the business by changing the name to Webbs Thrift-way Supermarket. They upgraded the store's inventory. In the late 1960's, they sold the store to a brother and sister team, Leo and Jocille · Smith, who ran the store for several years.

Fitchburg had a sawmill. He also had a threshing machine that he would use on the neighboring farms to harvest wheat.

Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries Jake Huffine, Miller's son-in-law took over the mill. He supplied crates to the local onion farmers. The sawmill closed about 1959.

Wilderness Park was started in the l 960's by Jake Huffine. After Jake's death, it was sold many times. Currently it is operated as Heartland Woods RV Resort.

There were 4 schools that served the area. Each of them were one room schools. By 1960, they were all shut down and consolidated into the Stockbridge Community Schools.

The Fitchburg Dairy Bar was a dream of Bob Taylor when he moved into the area in 1976. He erected a cement building on the southwest comer of Fitch- burg and Freiennuth Roads. The Taylors bad gen- erous hearts and ending up giving away more ice cream than they sold. Within a year they sold the business to a couple in Pleasant Lake. After the business closed, the building was converted into a garage. ·

This is a photograph taken in front to the Fitchburg General Store in 1964 showing kids getting ready to go out trick and treating.

Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries Gregory News 1985 to 2010

By Lucille Stoffer

Howlett Elementary School is no longer being used as a school. The Unadilla Township Offices moved from Dexter Trail to the Old Howlett Elementary Building which also now houses the Police Department and Head Start classes.

Tom's Market was sold a few years after Millie Gibney passed away. Her daughter Kathy ran the store until it was sold about 5 years ago to the Samona Family who then changed the name of the store to the Gregory Market.

The Unadilla Township Fire Department out grew its building and built a larger facility right next to the old building. The old building is now being used by the Police Department.

The Old Mill was changed into a Strip Mall which currently houses the Post office, Barber Shop, Mugg & Bopps, Rock Realty, Auction House and various other shops. Some of the other businesses it has housed in the past are the Meat Market, Specialty Satellite which moved to Stockbridge, Dish Network, Restaurant, Antique Store, Gregory Realty.

The Hewlett's Hardware owned by the Howlett family was sold to Mike and Rita Bramlett. During this transition Gordie Kunzelman opened Gordie's Power Equipment in the old Breniser Gas Station Building.

The Old Tom's Market Building's, next to the Restaurant and Mercantile Store, roof collapsed after many years of no upkeep and now is a vacant piece of land.

Gregory Realty operated from strip mall and then moved to Beth Ludtke's house on Main Street. Gregory Realty closed shortly after Pat Beduhn passe·d away.

The Restaurant has changed hands several times over the years.

Gregory and Patterson Lake residents went through a process of having sewers put in.

David Stoffer enjoyed hearing tidbits and gossip from people around town about the happening and characters of Gregory. David Stoffer had been in the process of compiling information on Gregory and had wanted to publish a book with this information. He would print off what he had put on the computer, make copies and pass them out for others to read and make corrections. However, he became very ill and went home to be with his Lord and Saviour September 2009. I hope to make his wish come true and finish his book, in his memory, sometime over the next couple of years. Before his passing he had an opportunity to attend the Stockbridge Area Genealogy Group and give a speech on his writings. Everyone seemed to enjoy his memories of the area and wanted him to return and share some more. Dave's sister Sharon said, "Many of Dave's memories came from his days of delivering the newspapers when he was a young boy. Here are a few pieces of information he found to be interesting about Gregory:

Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries • "Constables of the Gregory area were Tim Conk, Erston Clarke, Jack McGee, Calvin Somers, Charlie Wertz, and Orlin Jones. Each one brought a different bit of character to the constable position. This helped to bring a bit of excitement to the area. Each member of the constable staff brought his own level of professionalism to the job, and upheld that level with respect and dignity. • located just behind where the bank now stands was a saw mill. It was a small single story building that had not seen any paint for at least fifty years. It was owned and operated by Ralph Chipman. Don't know who had it before him. Ralph sold it to Leo Perniskey, who lived on Hadley Road by North lake. He enjoyed telling riddles and had at least one new one each day. Leo sold to some fellow from out of town who didn't spend much time there as near as I can remember. He had some equipment setting in front of the building near the road for a long while. I think he may have been into bankruptcy or something. The whole deal seemed sinister to someone my age. Just like some gangster stuff. • There were signs attached to all the equipment. I don't remember what they were, but they seemed quite official looking."

David has many more memories of interest that would create a book of its own.

Gregory had its first traffic light on M-106 {Main Street) between Roland and Peg Staffer's house and Betty Crockett's while they put tile in to help drain the rain water to try and keep Betty's house from flooding and to help keep the driveways along that stretch of M-106 from washing out when it rains. This was only for a week or two to help with traffic.

The Garden Club of the Stockbridge Area is now planting flowers in Gregory as six of the original seven charter members of the 25 year old organization were from Gregory . The Unadilla Township purchased the bicycle planters and are taking care of the water and maintenance of the plants.

Gregory continues to hold the Independence Day parade on July 4th. This year will be our 35t11 year of celebrating this event.

Gregory has been very fortunate during this current recession to have had very few home foreclosures compared to the rest of the communities. Growth has remained a pretty steady 3200 residents.

The one major change in Plainfield is that Max's Mall was sold. The store continued for a couple of years with a new name of Plainfield Station which remains on the building. The new owners were saddened when, for, various reasons they had to close the doors to the store. Plainfield Farm Bureau is still operating: also we have the Plainfield Methodist Church and Plainfield Cemetery.

Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries Area Post Offices

Stockbridge Spencer E. Pinckney 05/06/1935

A mail route from Dexter to Mason by way of Elmer E. Lehman 12/31/1947 Stockbridge was started in 1838, and a post office was opened in Stockbridge of that year. This was Orrin B Powell 01/11/1957 about the time the road was constructed between Dexter and the Clinton County seat. David Rogers Elmer E. Lehman 12/17/1965 was the first mail carrier. He made two round trips between Dexter and Mason each week on horseback. George C. Thurow Jr. 09/07/1979 He later drove a stage over this route when it was Daniel J. Newman 10/12/1979 improved. Mrs. Mary E. Finley 02/09/1980 For 51 years the post office was kept either in the residence or place of business of the postmaster. Annabelle Howard 01/04/1983 With appointment of Andrew D. Grimes, the office was in a separate building, a small frame place about Bill Haley 1985 109 W. Main Street. When Frederick Snyder was postmaster, the office was in a small building at l 04 Richard Thompson Officer in charge S. Main. Clarence Mills took over in 1898, and during this tenure the office was moved to the Phillip Snook Officer in charge Oddfellows building where it remained for 54 years. The present building was dedicated in 1965. Darold Woodard Officer in charge

Stockbridge Postmasters Annabelle Howard 01/04/1986

Date Appointed Joseph P. Whelan 10/06/2004

Silas Beebe Jr. I0/1 6/1838 Michele McAuliffe 12/10/2004

Horatio N. Forbes 08/06/1849 Michael F. Gavett 11/28/2005

Silas Beebe 06/21/1853 Robert T. Oaks 06/24/2006

Jerome C. Branch 09/16/1858 Denise Secord

Edy Baker 04/21/1862 Timothy A. Curran 10/04/2008

David N. Rogers 11114/1872 Robert T. Oaks 09/04/2009

Herman E. Brown 03/30/1880 Plainfield

Charles A. Nims 08/28/1885 Plainfield was given a post office on April 14, 1837. The first postmaster was Emery Beal and he kept the Andrew D. Grimes 07/13/1889 office in his home. The post office was in operation until Oct. 30, 1913. Mrs. Emily Grimes 01/03/1891 Emery Beal 04/14/1837 Frederick R. Snyder 11/24/1894 Rice A. Beal 12/04/1849 Clarence S. Mills 12/13/1898 Morris Topping 06/17/1851 James G. Hines 10/04/1905 George A. Burnett 09/24/1851 John Brogan 03/11/1914 Morris Topping 04/27/1853 Robe. Brown 02/06/1923 Sylvester G. Topping 02/04/1901

Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries Gregory Matthew J. Haines 0112112006

Halstead Gregory built a store near the depot. The Unadilla post office was located there. The Unadilla post office was first located in the Date Appointed hotel. It was later relocated to the store. The post office was discontinued on July 14, 1906 and later Halsted Gregory 03/14/1884 changed to Gregory.

Horace A. Fick 06/22/1889 Date Appointed

EldaA.Kuhn 06/29/1893 Elnathan Noble 06/25/1834

William W. Willard 06/10/1897 Gad C. Dibble 06/11/1938

James S. Stackable 07/21/1914 Junius L. Field 02/06/1842

Mrs. Edna Donohue 12/12/1922 William S. Mead 03/29/1842

GuyH.Kuhn 05/09/1939 George Taylor 04/29/1844

Robert H. Reid 06/30/1944 Charles Howell 03/12/1846

Roland F. Stoffer 03/15/1951 Stephen Cornell 07/2111849

Mrs. Muriel G. Stoffer 10/02/1970 John Dunning 01/23/1851

Gioseppe J. Testasecca 09/04/1971 Joseph L. Hartsuff 09/23/1853

Thomas Regan 12/31/1972 William E. Gregory 01/21/1858

Dwight B. Mitchell 10/27/1973 Aaron Bower 10/21/1058

John R. Vincent 06/2911979 Joseph L. Hartsuff 04/16/1859

Jacob E. Houck 01/26/1980 James Craig 06/13/1861

William J. Brenner 01/31/1986 Chambers D. Bird 04/14/1881

Marcella G. Longman 10/25/1986 George Stowe 01/10/1884

Joyce M. Del Montier 01/27/1989 Janette A. Watts 09/29/1884

Edwina N. McKee 07/26/1989 Albert G. Weston 01/02/1885

Margaret A. Klein 04/07/1990 George Stowe 03/14/1895

Wanda L. Koengeter 09/28/1992 Albert C. Watson 11/12/1902

Roger D. Byrd 02/20/1993 Felton

Matthew J. Haines 01/09/2003 There was a post office in section 6 in the early days known as the Felton post office. It was in a log Kalman M. Katona 9/06/2003 building across from where the Northwest Stockbridge Church is now located and was on the Laura White stage route between Dexter and Mason. This log building is still standing. Frank LaRue was the first Kathy Patterson to carry the mail from Dexter. Pam Hare

Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries Christopher J. Smith 02/06/1997

Munith Elsworth Mike Comish 06/07/1997

The post office of West Portage was moved here Betty Ann Rickerd 05/26/2005 from Nelson Hoyt's home. Mr. Hoyt became the first postmaster ofMunith on April 28, 1880. Denise L. Secord 11/12/2005

Date Appointed Betty Ann Rickerd 04/30/2007

Nelson Hoyt 04/28/1880 Denise L. Secord 10/01/2008

George W. Pixley 09/14/1885 Betty Ann Rickerd 03/28/2009

Nelson Hoyt 08/31/1889 Denise L. Secord 10/01/2009

Charles Crane 08/07/1890 Millville /White Oak

William H. Suylandt 08/07/1894 The post office was located a half mile south of Millville at White Oak. Charles Crane 07/05/1898 Fitchburg John E. Conlan 10/05/1901 Hubbard Fitch became the first postmaster of the William B. Dean 11/18/1903 settlement on March 8, 1856. The office operated until March 14, 1903. Paul Cross 01/l 2/1905

M. Margaret Conlan 06/19/1907 * * * * * Elizabeth (Rowe) Riggs 06/1811921

William M. Hankard 08/01/1933

Mrs. MargaretJ. Hoffman 03/31/1944 We owe a big thank you to the Stockbridge George Liebeck 0610111956 Community Schools for the loan of their book binding equipment. Without their help, we would Mrs. Dorothy A Wetzel 04/22/1966 not have been able to print this book.

Mrs. Kathryn R. Miller 03/03/1983 Thank you.

Ronald G. Mayer 08/2011983

Maryann Cimock 08/31/1987

Donna Larder l 1/20/1987

Billy J. Allen 12/31/1987

Linda L. Plyler 06/10/1988

Wanda G. Van Atta 10/0/1988

Gary D. Goss 12117/1988

Barbara McClinchey 04/23/1990

Thor J. Payne 05/30/1992

Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries UNSOLICETED STORIES

From the South Side

By Marcy (Fletcher) Tracy

Two questions come to mind as I'm writing this article, number 1, "Have you ever traced your family roots?" and number 2, "What is the real meaning of the term Redneck?" The well known comedian Jeff Foxworthy has his line of jokes referring to rednecks, but just where did the term originate? According to The History Channel, a program on cable network television, the term redneck came from the 1920's when the coal miners of the Appalachian region were trying to form a union. They wore red bandanas around their necks to show their support. That special group of miners was called the Rednecks. The name has been handed down through the generations and bas been associated with people and families coming from that area of the country. r Common surnames for this area of Michigan are Adams, Allen, Arnett. Bailey, Barker, Bradley, Brown, Carpenter, Craft, Cole, Conley, Dyer, Fletcher, Gullett, Hackworth, Howard, Marshall, Miller, Minix, Patrick, Prater, Risner, Hammond, Salyer, Shepherd, Watson, Whitaker, Williams, Wireman and many more. So, if you are related to these families, and you live in the Stockbridge area, chances are that your grandparents or great grandparents migrated north during the 1940's and 1950's in search of work and a better way of life from the small town of Salyersville, Kentucky or the surrounding parts within Magoffin County. Many families came north during the summer months with all of their belongings packed on a truck in search of employment. Some were employed at local farms such as The Baldwin Farm or Krummrey's. They either worked with harvesting and sorting onions or other crops, mechanical work on the farm vehicles, or field bosses. It was very bard, laborious work. People from that experience have said that the black muck dirt was very irritating to the skin. They would spend many hours each day working directly in the soil pulling and crating the onions. Once the work was finished for the season, they would return to either their home in Kentucky or possibly Ohio and Indiana to work there. If the head of the household was fortunate enough to get a job working in a nearby factory, then the famiJies would stay here permanently. Soon other family and friends would follow behind.

lfyou are not familiar with Magoffin County, it is located in Eastern Kentucky, nestled in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains. It is a truly, beautiful and unique place. Each year, Magoffin County honors a surname. There is a week long celebration packed fulJ of festivities during the Labor Day holiday. The Magoffin County Historical Society works very hard year round gathering photographs, stories and family tree information to publish in books for each family name. These books are then offered for sale for the current year and from years past in their store located in down town Salyersville.

lfyou would like more information on obtaining the family books, you may contact the historical society at www.rootsweb.ancestry.com/ .... kymhs

The Stockbridge Town Crier

By Ruth Camp

The Stockbridge Brief Sun was taken over by The Ingham County News July 1, 1965. Two years later the paper was renamed the Town Crier, owned and published by Charlotte Camp. Under her ownership the Town Crier and Charlotte Camp were the recipients of numerous awards and honors including eight Michigan Press Association Awards of · Excellence, four School Bell A wards from the Michigan Education Association, and special recognition by civic organizations and school groups. Charlotte's husband, Robert, assisted his wife in producing the newspaper. First using a camera Robert purchased in Europe during World War II, Charlotte later traded it for her first 'real' newsy camera. With Stockbridge physician Dr. Sidney Beckwith as her guide and inspiration, she developed her own pictures in the basement, the neighbor's basement, and anywhere she could. The Town Crier was known for hiring numerous high school students, introducing them to the field of journalism. The newspaper employees joined forces with the Stockbridge Area Chamber of Commerce to conduct local National Make a Difference Day activities. The paper, printed by lnco Graphics in Mason, was delivered to retail outlets for many years by her son David Camp and later her daughter-in-law. Rachel Camp.

Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries Ruth Camp Wellman joined her mother on the Town Crier staff in 1980. She and her sister Faye had both worked as student reporters while they were in high school. Ruth assumed the role of editor in l 985 and became the owner following the death of Charlotte Camp March 3, l 996. At that time the news office was located at 510 Water Street in a remodeled section of the former lumberyard. Funds from several golf tournaments and planter raffles were the foundation for the high school journalism scholarship in memory of Charlotte and Robert Camp. Near the end of2000 the newspaper was relocated to downtown Stockbridge at 130 E. Main Street and in the fall of 2002 moved to its current home at 100 South Clinton Street near the four comers. Afflicted with Mult iple Sclerosis, Ruth Camp Wellman decided it was in her best interest to sell the Town Crier, a famil _,-owned business for more than four decades, in the fall of2008. The newspaper was purchased by Nesterwood, LLC.

The Story of Poverty Knob and Piety Hill

As recalled by Mrs. Helen Mitteer (1910-2001) and provided by her son, Jack Mitteer

Many years ago the area of Stockbridge. Michigan in the vicinity of the intersection of Wood and llill streets came to be known and referred to (locally) as "Poverty Knob and/or Piety Hill". The following is the story of the origin of this neighborhood reference. In the fall of 1930 I came to teach 5th and 6th grade in the Stockbridge school. I became acquainted with the Mitteer family during that time. This included James, Georgia, Marie, and Bob who lived in the old house on Wood Street. Grandmother Ortance (Reeves) Mitteer and her daughter, Aunt Ruth Mitteer_ lived in the big house (now owned by Dan I Linda Dancer) until Ortance died in 1938. The Smiths, Ester and Harold lived in the end house on Wood Street. There was no Cherry St. then and Mitteer farmland connected to the Smith's house on the South and West sides. The Mitteers and Smiths were very good friends and neighbors. Ester was the piano player for the Baptist Church in Stockbridge. Marie and Harold Knight were going to be married on March 26, 1933 at the Mitteer house and Ester Smith was going to present the music for the ceremony. Bob Mitteer and Twould stand up with them for their wedding. We were at the house making plans for the wedding and just visiting. Something was said about the name of the hill where the neighborhood was located. The depression had recently put an end to the Mitteer dairy business (about 30 customers had been delivered quart bottles daily by a horse drawn wagon). At that tune the milk did not have to be pasteurized but a small milk house provided for washing, scalding, and bottling the fresh milk. Since most customers could no longer afford to purchase delivered milk the business was stopped. This was the reason that Mother Georgia Mitteer had decided the name for the neighborhood definite ly must be "Poverty Knob". However Ester Smith believed th at the neighborhood should have a more religious name and suggested "Piety Hi11''. After some discussion it was agreed by all in attendance that the neighborhood would be known both as "Poverty Knob and Piety Hill". Over the years 1 have heard various stories of this neighborhood name, but to my personal recollection the foregoing is the story and origin of "Poverty Knob and Piety Hill" in Stockbridge Michigan.

A Letter from John D. Reeves

Pinckney, May 15, 1838 Father I have tho wt best to commence a letter to you that will inform you that I am well and some few particulars of my journey. I left Newburgh at nine in the evening arived in Albany about sunrise then on the Rail Road to Utica about two on Thursday. From that we took the Canal on a line boat. It so happened that there was two Domanie on it. They were methodist. We had some sound argument on almost every subject. They were very warm abolitionists. The time passed away very pleasant. We arrived Buffalow Tuesday morning sunrise and started on the Lake at nine. Has very pleasant passage to Detroit. Got in about five in the afternoon of the next day. The Lake was very calm. We had about 200 passengers on board. Stayed over knight in Detroit. Left on the rail road at nine. Got to Ipsilanti half past ten, 25 miles. Stayed there two hours and found a team to take us to Ann Arbor. There we found George and James attending court. There I found almost all my old acquaintances it being court week. We stayed in the village over knight and heard Lawyers plead. They did spout off not slow. In the morning George concluded to go with us to Pinckney there fore we arrived in Pinckney on Friday the 11 making it about 9 days. I have not been to James yet. James came here yesterday and also Stage and Timothy. Mr Depew, George, Eliza and I went to meeting to day. Heard a discourse on Sunday School by a Presbaterian Minister. Had about one mile to go to a log school house. George said he counted them. Said there was 47. Mr Depew made a prayer. He preached one sermon on the canal boat on Sunday. There was about 20 pasengers.

Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries This is in the afternoon. James and N Stage has gone home. James complains of having a cold and ofheadake. George and family are as well as common. George keep but one yocke of oxen. Them are on the place where Stage lives near James. George has not got many goods in the store. Some leather and brown cloth and earthen ware is about the amounts. I should judge it was a good place for selling goods. It is a very pleasant situation. He about 50 sheep yet and about sold 250 lb of wool yesterday worth about 4$. They look very well but not so fat as yours woz. I cannot say much about my land yet for I have not been to see it yet. We expect to go to morrow morning. It is just knight and I do expect to go with Mr. Depew to hear an --- on temperance this evening. Quite likely I will not finish this till after I go and see the land. Ifnot I will write some thing about it. Monday morning. Very pleasant. Mr Depew, George and I went to temperance meeting last knight and heard an address that kept us a laughing. It would have been smart ifhe had not read it. AU of the school house was full of people. There are a great many English settled in the neighborhood. Appear to be very friendly people. A large mill about 20 rods east of the store and dwelling house all under one roof. There is 12 dwelling houses in the village. All frame but two. The country is rather level and sandy. No stone. Some plains and openings but no timber land. It has been very pleasant every day since I arrived in Michigan. Breakfast ready ------Tuesday 5 o'clock. I am on my return from looking land. We went to some of your land. That which we thought would suit him. The timbered land was so far off that we conc1uded we could not go to it. He said that he was satisfied with the land that he seen. Then he looked at mine. He is a getting in some things of a hurry to get through to his journeys end. He says he likes the country much. Is in pretty good spirits to. Says there is rather to many methodists about the neighborhood had to visit him. We went to Mr Lows. He is a clear methodist They are not settling so fast as they were a year ago last fall although is some few families settled near your land. I thinck the country is improving as fast as can be expected. There is some talk of there being a tax. Some say the tax will be five dollars on the lot. Some say not so much but as for that I will try and find out of soon as possible and let you know in my next letter. I have not been in the neighborhood long enough to tell much about it. I expect to return to Georges tomorrow and from that I will go to James with Mr Depew. Stay perhaps two or three days then on to my land. I have not been to Lima yet. I have inquired the price of working cattle. They are very high. Cannot get any thing ofa pare for less than $100. I don't think that I shal want to plow any until the first of June. The grane looks fine throughout Michigan where I have been, but the western part of New York state it looks slim. The people are planting there com. The weather is fine for it. We went on foot from Georges to look at the land. Makes it not so pleasant as it would be if he had have gone in a wagon about 20 miles. I want you to tell Charles to write to me concerning that horse back with Henry Hill. I expect George started this morning after his goods. He goes to Detroit on the rail road and sees that they get to Ipsilanti on that. Then he will have to send teams down after them. It is about 30 miles to Ipsilanti. He will have hire teams to go after the goods.

I expect to carry this to Lima with me so that you will not get 20 after writing. I will not seal it till I get to Lima. Quite likely you will be pleased to see it. Thursday 19 at Lima. Left Pinckney this morning. George started with us for Detroit. Goes to Ipsilanti on horse back then on the rail road. We just got to James in time miss the rain. It commenced raining about noon. Found James a plowing for com. Has a man a building. He had a frame of a barn. Believe it a good man. Now have about 19 acres of wheat looks very well. 6 acres of oats. Plan to 9 acres of com. Keeps his grey horses 6 sheep two children. Has no name for the girl who grows fine. Mr Depew started for the south this morning. I went a piece with Mr Depew and put him on the road. He said us good bye with pretty good spirits. Then I return to James. I expect to go to Pinckney tomorrow. It cleared last knight. Very pleasant. Crops look fine. All well. No more at present.

John D. Reeves

Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries Otis Family

Excerpts from the Francis Jesse Diary

Francis Jesse, and my grandfather; came from New York state and settled on a 120 acre farm in the NW part of Stockbridge township in the year 1845. They cleared a small piece of land and sowed it to wheat and cut it with a sickle and thrashed it on the ground with poles. They had sheep and my grandmother sheared them, with her tailor shears. She was a tailor and she washed the wool and carded and spun and colored it, wove it into blankets and socks and mittens.

Grandfather was also a shoemaker. He made shoes, boots, and brooms. About Yz mile west of the farm is a large hill and a spring, where a tribe of Indians lived. They hunted bear and deer and fished the lakes around the area.

One time grandfather said the Indians were after a bear and come through the door yard. The Indians were after it. Grandfather said that was too close for him. There was always a pail of swill. which was for the pigs. It was mostly dishwater and the soap used for washing dishes was home made and was made with lye, leached out of wood ashes and fat scraps from the butchering hogs. Grandfather said there was enough lye in it to kill worms in the pigs. As the Indians and their dogs went through the yard, the dogs would drink from the swill pail. then the Indians would do the same.

One day grandfather sent his son, Harmon, which was my father, to a neighbor a mile west. When he was about halfway there, he saw the Indians coming and he laid down beside a log and the Indians saw him. They came over and picked him up and said to him "Smoke Man boy" (which meant white man's boy). He was scared. The Indians went to the house and told grandfather they scared his son. The Indians were very friendly. When the Civil War came, my father, Harmon, was 16 years old and he wanted to go, but he was too young. So he started a mustache and when the next call came he went; they did not ask his age. They wanted men badly and he went and served through the war.

The old farm has been in the family for 105 years. Grandfather's name was Francis Jesse. He was the first owner. The second owner was Harmon Jesse. The third owner was Francis Jesse, Harmon's son. Luella Jesse Otis, L. C. Otis' wife was the fourth owner. Austin Jesse Otis the fifth owner, has owned the farms since 1980.

My farm is a mile west of the old Jesse farm on Dexter Trail and an is old land mark. There was a stage coach running from Dexter to Lansing to Grand Rapids. There was a log building where my house now stands. It was called Pealed Shanty. There was a stop and beds in it and the coach would stop over night going on the next morning.

And after they could get lumber sawed. It was made into another house. The boards were not edged. They were put upright and was called slabs and soon the new building was called Slab Town. Up to date for those times. The roads were very bad. There were long stretches of what was called cordoroy road. Logs were laid across the road touching each other and some times the logs was laid in water and to keep them from floating away they put them long poles across the ends of the logs and bored holes through poles and into the logs and drive wooden pegs into them.

Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries SISTER OF THE Garden Bells (cont'd.) Bucket Brigade BELLES Julia Neuhaus Jason Patrick Nancy Ocwieja Jerry Long Hot Flash Dames Tammy Porter Josh McAlister Vickie Osborne Audrey Price John Salyer Jr. Beckie Rathnau Carol Steingasser Jeremy Towler, Dennise Laraway Andrea Stickney Matt Severson Suzi Schroeder Jeannine Waymen Matt Francis Kitty Gailey Dorene White Marty Bliss Chita Kunzelman Judy Williams Doug Sommer Kristina Fitzsimmons Nancy Wisman Don McAlister Beth Kunzelman Russ Stowe Penny Kunzelman Presbyterian Church Belles Dave Harrison Eve Greenwood Linda Dancer Richard McDonald Helen Croin Carrie Johnson Brent Stowe Carol Kellenberger Cinnie A very Shawn Warren Beverly Penix Jennifer Grumelot John Salyer Sr. Violet Jones Matt Harden Jodie Penix Misc. Belles Bryon Wiley Janet Nott Jane Marz Shane Batdorff Becky Mural MaryBarber Jeff Long · Linda Risner Lucille Stoffer John Beck Sue Lindemer Yvonne Whitaker Mark Armstron g Judy Glynn *Jessica Hopkins Ridge Owen Kathy Mayer Fire Belles Kathleen Mullins Misc. Brush Brothers Nicole Patrick Bev Smith Jerry Jackson Terry Sommer *Elizabeth Fillmore Tom Mayer Deanna McAlister Jacqueline Fillmore Rich Mullins Peggy Stowe *Kristen Fillmore Kim Smith Jean Bliss Betty Wetherell Becky Salyer Connie Wagner SHAVERS PERMIT TiaHarden Debbie Clark Tammy Salyer Sherrie Aly Misc. Shavers Nikki Stowe Jeff Lambert Heather Farrar BROTHER OF THE BRUSH Ed Wetherell Jennell Quinn Paul Rogers Hope Salyer Exhausted Roosters Ron Wagner Ashley Long Lynn Osborne Matt Stitt Madison Patrick Aaron Craft William Clark Kim Smith John Hopkins Garden Belles Rick Nott *Devin Whitaker Bev Allen Jason Osborne *Connor Whitaker Dorothy Craft Kevin Nickolas John Fillmore Susan Daily Jeremy Muraf *Austin Fillmore Dona Erhart Clair Risner Hester Fillmore David Lindemer These are Brother of the Brush and Peg Glenn Kenny Kunzelman Sisters of the Belles groups as they Molly Howlett Eric Kunzelman exist as we go to print. If you would Patrice Johnson Duane Kunzelman like to start or join a group, contact Sue Lindemer Steve Richmond Luci Stoffer at 517-851-4441 or e­ Karen Lunsford Rich Deemer mail at [email protected]. RhodaMcVay Thomas Brainard Laura Morehouse Steve Brainard Julia Neuhaus

Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries r Stockbridge Area r Tractor Dealers H&F SALES & SERVICE RW HUMRICH & SONS ' ' 1940-1979 1972-1989 OLIVER, ALLIS CHALMERS ALLIS CHALMERS NEW IDEA PLAINFIELD MUNITH LLOYD MINER HOWLETTS - 1930-1970 1950-1955 ALLIS CHALMERS & NEW IDEA INTERNATIONAL GREGORY MUNITH

COBB & SHREER 1951-1969 CG LANTIS & SONS FORD 1937-1978 STOCKBRIDGE INTERNATIONAL STOCKBRIDGE PLAINFIELD FARM BUREAU CO-OP, OLIVER McEWING 1950 &COCKSTOP JOHN DEERE PLAINFIELD STOCKBRIDGE PLAINFIELD TRACTOR SALES 1968-1972 MARSHALL EQUIPMENT MASSEY FERGUSON SALES & SERVICE PLAINFIELD 1961-1969 JOHN DEERE MALCHO BROTHERS STOCKBRIDGE 1950-1961 JOHN DEERE BRESINER'S GARAGE

STOCKBRIDGEForest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District LibrariesGREGORY Benjamin and Caroline Westfall Charlotte and Charles Hannewald, Aaron, Reuben, Ezra and Ida.

The Fink family, back: Charles, William and Jacob, :front: Minnie, Jacob, Anna, George. Mr. and Mrs. Moeckel with Walter and Edgar on laps, Pauline, Beda and Aaron behind, Carl and Ottmar on floor

Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries r Heeney Farm, Heeney Road Archenbronn Farm, M-106

Taylor Farm, Dutton Road. John A. Taylor, Ira McGlockne, Alma Simonds, Mrs. Ellen Taylor, Lantis House, M-52 and Dansville Road Mrs. McGlockne, missing person.

Marshall House, on M-36 Harrlands on Coon Hill Road

Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries Plainfield School, 1932. Back: Esther Barnum, Emma Smith's Sunday School Class. Back, Floyd Herbert Miller, George Robb, Mavis Glenn, Frank Shaw, Nettie Beryl, Emma Smith, Ruby Green, Herbert, Phyllis King, Phillip Kunzelman, Bernice John Usher, Anna Neithammer, Ario Ellsworth, Herbert, Jane King. Middle, Phyllis Kinsey, Fay Townsend Middle: Ruth Green, Frank Green, Dwayne Glenn, Richard Grosshans, Francis Kunzel­ Clara Neithammer, Ray Cobb. Front: Jay bCobb, man, Joyce Kinsey. Front: Marie Glenn, Dwight Cloy Smith Kunzelman, Elizabeth Grosshans, Lloyd Jacobs, Betty Ann Paten, Milford Kunzelman

Fullmer School Back: Metta Jackson, Ida Burhus, Lyle Glenn, Anna Young, teacher, Thelma Cook, Gertrude Asquith, Middle:Glenn Runciman, Grace Taylor, Daisie Judson, Frank Burgess. 'Three boys in front: Millard Gillmore, June & John Taylor. Boy runnillg into picture is Glen Gilliver. •, Stockbridge High School Faculty, 1924-1925, Hazel Mears, Principal, Miss McKenzie, Dorothy Parent Huttenlocker, William Sager, Ethel Davis Rockwell, Hiram Nutt, Nellie Applegate, Mrs. Roeckpe, Emma Smith, Floyd Haight, Superintendent.

Fitchburg School, 1947-1948. Donald Craft, Louie D. Craft, Richard Huttenlocker, Douglas . Chappew, Donald Omans, Douglas Wilson Millville School

Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries r

\, .. . ( t ' II PBBPIB 'DI •1 , brldue·s Hlsi:oric .p '". .- ' \ • 1. ... . } l ;_:,• '"' .. . ·..~ r : . ~ Wiii ~ illn at 5:00plQ _,. ... ,,_ - antlnue everv '15 m1nutas.i-_. ~. ~. •. • • - ~ 1' ~ _:30PID .

Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries Glendine, Gaylord and Fem Rice

Edward Carley at the switchboard in Munith

Gorton Store in Waterloo, 1895

Lantis Log House

Ladies at Munith Methodist Church

Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries Plaque on Unadilla Store Hot Dog Stand in Unadilla

Stockbridge Village Park KOTMM Hall in Plainfield

Delivering the mail in Gregory

Stockbridge Post Office Crew

Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries Asquith house, comer of Clinton and Elizabeth Streets, Jay and Daisy Asquith on porch. House Philander Gregory house, Gregory was originally built by David Rogers.

Dr. Williams house, East Main and Williams Street. Freeman Boylan also lived here. Huttenlocker House, John, Ina and Elizabeth Hut­ tenlocker

The Dancer house on South Clinton

Jackson homestead, Dexter Trail, Andrew Bur­ gess, Minnie Bjrgess, ?, Andrew and Mary Jackson

Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries Baptist Church Sunday School. Back: Mrs. Rob Gregory High School, 1929. Back: Ferris Howelll, ?, ?, ?, Betsy Pickett,?,?, Celia Dean. Caskey, Wilhelmina Roepke, Lafayette Front: Grandpa Jimmie Bruerton, Grandma Bru­ Dewey, Ada Corser,- Ada Heselackwerdt, Lyle erton, Mary Holmes, Mrs. Wesley Berry, Libby Bowdish, Helen Hadley, Eva Rice. Middle: Grimes. Roy Bishop, Wanna Bowdish, Medeline Leach, Barney Roepke, Mae Wordem. Front: Merlin McCleer, Corinne Palmer, Leo Gibney

Bullock School circa 1917

McKenzie School Back: Donald Steffy, Robert J.>rice, Vivian Cobb, teacher Margie McINtee. Middle: Allen Trapp, Gerald Bonnell,?,?, John Steffey, Ralph Reed, Glenn Steffey. Front: Paul Gauss,?, Jeanette Trapp,?, Dick Price.

Dewey School, 1921. Back: Clayton Frink.el, Forrest Mollenkopf, Carl Tisch, Norman Mol­ lenkopf, Maribel Price, Howard R. Artz, teacher. Middle : Clare Tisch, Cleo Belle Ewing, Luella Tisch, Helen Prince, Kenneth Stanfield, A. C. Schray. Front: Maynard Stanfield, Gerald Ewing, Emma Tisch, Betty Prine, Erla Belle Ewing, Rayner Tisch Gregory School

Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries Friday, July 16, 2010 at the 19501s STAGE STOP Diner & Ice Cream Treatery. 555 W. Main St., Stockbridge, Ml 49285 between Mills Ave. and Western Ave. VvVVVV.stockbridge175 .com/facebook Event 5:00 p.m. til Dusk.

Cruise in and treat yourself to the Stockbridge, Michigan 175th Anniversary Celebration Events. *Food, Ice Cream, Classics, 1 BOO's Formal Ball & Fireworks _Stay over for Saturday- Parade at noon, music and shows.

Sponsor: Doug MiUs (517) 851-7666 - Diner

Stockbridge Area Celebration = www.stockbridgel75.com

~ Gnd.a.ci: 'f/e.MM.e.ll ~ (51'1) 851-8511/.

Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries 2010-2011 Homeroom Teachers Justin Hibbard Jacob A Schneider Destine S Allard Maria A Hoard Grace D Schniers Ellie K Allen Lester Burlin Holland Lily Jai Schocker HanaRAllen Jacob D Hudson Keith D Schroeder Toriann K Allen Jesse Michael James Samantha A Sharland Evan T Allison Alexei A Jessop Tyler J Shepard Rita C Alonso Eric B Johnson Sarah E Shevrovich Alan J Baird Thomas William Johnson Autumn R Shingledecker Charlotte R Balkus Emily L Keiser Allison M Showerman Sarah Barney Daniel J King Rachel P Smith Marissa Nicole Bellestri Ronda L Kirkland Jacob S Spadafore Matthew Bellestri Adam C Klusman Michael J Springboro David L Bishop Alex R Knipple Shaylyn L Sprout Rayne T Bliss Kyle J Kraatz Austin W Stanfield Melanie J Bouck Nora K Krusinski Cheyenne T Strong Logan 0 Boylan Darian J Laird Rhiannon J Sturtevant Jake A Breslin Alli M Lambert Scout R Tatar Joshua W Brown Sydney Laurynn Leatherberry Jessica M Taylor Travis H Brown Devin Dugan Lemble Elijah Es Thurston Trevor M Brown Emma J Lockhart Savannah K Torrey Stacia A Burns Noel B MacGregor Alexander R Twining Kyler A Buurma RyanM Maier Ethan M Utley Trevor L Cadieux Corey G Markle Austin M Van Schoiack Kolby A Canfield Caleb A McCarty Erika Visel Peter J Casto Ryan T McClain Christian R Wagner Tabitha K Caudill Daniel J McEllis Timothy P Ward Jake E M Chapman Dillon M McEllis Cody J Warren Breanna N Choate Julianna Noelle Mcinnes Tyler M Wayne Forrest L Clark Kenneth F Minger Levi T Weiland Calla M Coleman Kristyn L Morris Kaitlyn R Wolf Austin James Connelly Brooke L Morse Cade J Wright Cory J Cook Nathan L Myers Jack M Youngblood Liam TCorby Caleb M Nalli Shelby L Zeigler Cheyenne S Cordero KodyMNeal GlenE Zonca Larry R Comish William S Nichols Poppy Em Cox Alex Novak Alexis A Devlin Bradley M Nowak The mural depicted on the previ­ Dara C Diffenbaugh Julia M Olson ous page was painted by Kathe­ Austin M Forbes Bradley Allen Oltrogge rine Larson and her 5th grade art RoyWFultz Katelyn MarieOutwater class at Heritage Elementary Crystal R Gallup Kaitlyn L Petty School. This is a list of the fifth Mason M Gee-Montgomery Stanley M Plennert grade students at Heritage. Parker A Goetz Jason T Proctor Mackenzie A Goss Zoe R Puckett Allison N Gunn Sarah E Pulk Photograph by Lynne Beauchamp Clayton M Hale Jacob RRaus Kaylee E Hall Justin Dale Redford Jordan R Hammerberg Hannah L Ricketts Hillary 0 Hantz Kaitlin R Risner Wendell J Hastings Lindsay M Risner Lauren I Hay Alexis N Roberts Tern Marie Heldt Shane Thomas Robinson Chandler Lee Hendrickson Anthony James Rowe-Darrow Anthony M Hernandez Nicklas R Rushlow Shelby R Herron Montana Robert Sager

Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries Marion Collier playing piano at 2007 alumni banquet

Front:

Gary Gee in I 946

William Willmore, Eliza Helen Baker Willmore, Johanan C. Willmore, Minnie Willmore Green, Nell Willmore Fitch, Sylvia Willmore Brown

Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries ~, . ~··,.. '· ~ r.') . ,,1?.J 1P· *' ~'.}1J, ~ ~4 1t:, 1 ~-~ . ~ . ~~ .. Ii ~ j I r • i -·--j GARDEN TOUR ! I STOCKBRIDGE-GREGORY I _j Saturday, June 26 Noon to 4:00 p.m. Stockbridge Garden Club

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One day e~·e ry year or two, select pril·ate garde ns open their gates to the publ.ic. You are cordially int'ited to attend the 2010 Stockbridge-Gregory Garden Tour. All proceeds go to the 17 5th Anniversary Stockbridge Area Celebration. Committee.

Saturday, ]un,, 26 $8 Presale (per person) 1 Noon to 4:00 p. m. Ticker.-; availablt> at Stockbridge Pharmacy Stockbridge Garden Club & Gregory Bramlett Hardware.

$12 Day of Tour For more inform.ation Tickets available at gazebo in Stockbridge plwne 734-498-3542, or Town Square and in Gregory at Williams' : e-nuiil pjohnsonl [email protected] residence, 19425 Spears Rd. · •

Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries ~ Shirts, Signs, Designs r- and Promotion a I Products

116 M-106 LANTIS PLAZA STOCKBRIDGE, MICHIGAN 517 851-7470 tracygraphics.com

Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries LESLIE TOWNSHIP RESOLlJfION 09-10-12

: LESLIE CITY RESOLlJfION NO. 2010-07

RESOLITTION HONORING THE STOCKBRIDGE AREA ANNNERSARY CELEBRATION

WHEREAS, The Board of Trustees of Leslie Township, Leslie City Council and the Citizens of our community wish to extend our ·heartiest congratulations to Stockbridge Township, the Village of Stockbridge and its Citizens during their terquasquicentennial celebration;

WHEREAS, the Stockbridge Area was first settled by Elijah Smith in 1835, l 75 years ago;

WHEREAS, the accomplishments and achievements of the Stockbridge Area deserve recognition and commendation;

WHEREAS, the Stockbridge Area has always been considered a friend and fierce sports rival of the Leslie Community;

WHEREAS, Leslie Township and the City of Leslie would like to encourage citizens of Leslie to join in the terquasquicentennial events happening in Stockbridge July 11-17, 2010;

NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, Leslie deems it an honor and pleasure to extend to Stockbridge sincere congratulations and best wishes for many more happy and productive years.

THE UNDERSIGNED CLERKS of Leslie Township and the City of Leslie hereby CERTIFY that this Resolution was duly· adopted by the Leslie Township Board of Trustees on the g•h day of June, A.O., 2010 at their regular meeting and by the City of Leslie on the 1st day of June, A.O., 20 Io at their regular meeting.

_Leslie Township Clerk

DenaeIJ&AA-h~t DaveflI){)l"t:C ~ Leslie City Clerk

Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries Stockbridge Celebration Powwow

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Hosted by

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Stockbridge Area Anniversary Celebra ion Committee Sou 1 Ea · '!rn Michigan Indians. Inc.

Native Amer·can Drum Dancers & Food Arts & Crafts by Native American Vendors SITE Stockbridge High Sctiool GRANO 1RY Saturday July 1. 20: J N Clinton pm ti pm Stockbridge MI .p,)

Host Orum Painted Rock Head Veteran Corky Knox llingit Pequot lJ 5 A my

Native Americi'fn Dar.ce Exhib1 011s Public Welcome Traders/Vendors by Invitation Only For mo1e information contact NiaJh Beriwe.r at 111/C~h ~ <:c'l11!i --Q!Jl or _ Sue Franklm at serm sen 1 For addtiom! contact 111fomiat101J Telephone or 1vi1w emi1 g

Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries "STC~ :;KB - ( ~" TERQUA~ QUIC:'ENT ~N-NIA l, I3ALL

Schoo.: 49285

Forest Parke Library & Archives - Capital Area District Libraries